What Is Surfactant and Why Is It Important for Premature Infants’ Lungs?
Premature birth often means a baby’s lungs aren’t fully developed, making breathing difficult or even life-threatening. One of the most important substances for lung function is surfactant—something many preemies are born without.
What Is Surfactant?
Surfactant is a naturally occurring substance made by the lungs. It reduces surface tension inside the alveoli (the tiny air sacs where oxygen is exchanged) and keeps them from collapsing between breaths. Without surfactant, these air sacs stick together, making it hard for a baby to take in enough oxygen.
Full-term babies usually begin producing surfactant around 32–34 weeks of pregnancy, with sufficient levels by 35–36 weeks. Premature babies, especially those born before 32 weeks, often don’t have enough surfactant at birth.
Why Is Surfactant So Important for Premature Infants?
Without enough surfactant, premature infants are at risk for Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)—a condition that causes labored breathing, low oxygen levels, and can lead to serious complications. Surfactant helps:
Open the lungs so babies can take their first breaths
Prevent alveoli from collapsing between breaths
Improve oxygen exchange, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation
Support lung growth and long-term respiratory health
How Is Surfactant Given to Premature Babies?
If a baby is born too early to produce enough surfactant, they may receive surfactant replacement therapy in the NICU. This involves placing a breathing tube into the baby’s trachea and delivering surfactant directly into the lungs. It’s often given shortly after birth or when signs of RDS appear.
This therapy has dramatically improved survival rates and outcomes for very premature infants.
NEOwell’s Role in Supporting NICU Families
When your baby is in the NICU and requires surfactant therapy, it can feel overwhelming. NEOwell is here to support families through education, emotional support, and ongoing care. We help parents:
Understand complex NICU treatments like surfactant therapy
Feel confident asking questions and advocating for their baby
Navigate the transition from NICU to home
Our goal is to help families feel informed and empowered during an uncertain time.
Support for those First Breaths
Surfactant is a life-saving therapy for premature infants with underdeveloped lungs. If your baby received surfactant in the NICU, know that it's an essential step toward helping them breathe easier and grow stronger.
Need support navigating your NICU journey?
Connect with NEOwell to learn how our NICU education and post-discharge services can help you and your baby thrive.