Intraventricular Hemorrhage

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) occurs when there is bleeding into, or near, the normal spaces within a baby's brain. Although the cause of IVH is not completely known, premature babies are at increased risk for developing the condition because their blood vessels are very fragile and immature. As a result, they can burst easily and cause bleeding.

The smaller and more premature the baby, the greater their risk of developing IVH. Bleeding in the brain can put pressure on the nerve cells and cause damage. Severe damage to cells can lead to brain injury and cause motor problems or mental retardation.

Experts at UCSF Children's Hospital care for infants with IVH in the William H. Tooley Intensive Care Nursery.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007