The odds are: Statistics behind premature births and neonatology

Early arrival kills more newborns than anything else. The Times presents a graphic look at the causes of early labor and the odds of survival for premature and micro preemie babies.

PART ONE:
Parents of micro preemie face heart-wrenching decisions

When a baby is born at the edge of viability, which is the greater act of love: to save her, or to say goodbye?

• Full special report - Photos, illustrations, more stories - and help

NEXT: The zero zone - In a neverland of sick babies, the NICU is a place where there is no future or past. Every moment is a fight for existence. Online Tuesday, Dec. 11.