ABSTRACT
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the premature population. This chapter focuses on important antenatal and intrapartum risk factors for NEC development. These factors include mode of delivery, growth restriction and small-for-gestational-age infants, use of antenatal corticosteroids, mode of delivery, chorioamnionitis, and delayed cord clamping. By understanding these maternal-fetal–related risk factors, along with those factors present in the postnatal period, we hope to provide a more complete understanding of the factors that lead to the development of this devastating disease.
