IVH is attributed to the intrinsic weakness of the germinal matrix vasculature and to fluctuations in cerebral blood flow. IVH is a major problem in premature infants and preterm infants who experience significant IVH develop neurologic sequelae. Infants born in non-tertiary Hospitals are at greater risk for severe IVH. Previous studies have reported up to 20-25% of IVH in infants born before 30 weeks of gestation and weighing less than 1500 gram. As the neonatal intensive care continues to improve the care for infants at greater extremes of prematurity, the need to minimize the risk of IVH increases. Interventions performed during the first minutes, hours and days can influence survival and long-term morbidity.

Majority of IVH’s occur within the initial 3-5 days. Therefore, this period is very crucial in applying measures to prevent this complication.