The transition of late preterm

Background The transition from the intrato the extra-uterine life is characterized by major physiological changes in respiratory and hemodynamic functions [1]; moreover, the intrauterine thermostability has to been replaced by the neonatal termoregulation [2]. Many of the antepartum and intrapartum risk factors associated with the need of resuscitation may be present in late-preterm neonates (34-36 weeks) [3]. It is also reported a double risk of Caesarean Section (CS) in case of late-preterm compared to term deliveries [4]. Our objective was to evaluate the transition period in late-preterm infants in particular considering the need for resuscitation and the incidence of hypothermia.