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Apnea of Prematurity

Medically reviewed by: Yamini Durani, MD

What Is Apnea of Prematurity?

Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is when a premature (or preterm) baby:

  • pauses breathing for more than 15 to 20 seconds
    or
  • pauses breathing for less than 15 seconds, but has a slow heart rate or low oxygen level