The Neurological Impact of Preterm and Very Preterm Birth and Influence of IVF Pregnancies on Developmental Outcomes: A Literature Review and Case Study

This article explores the influence on brain development, as well as the
neurological and behavioral outcomes, of the preterm and very preterm infant. It also briefly covers the influence
of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), multiple births, gestational age, and birth weight on development as well as giving
a more in depth review of literature that evaluates the impact of preterm birth and very preterm birth on brain
development and neurological and behavioral outcomes. Finally, a case study is presented based upon the
experience of a woman who delivered one twin at 24 weeks who survived and presently shows no significant
abnormalities. KEY WORDS: Preterm infants, very preterm birth, VLBW, IVF, brain development, neurological
impairments, behavioral problems.