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INTRODUCTION: Prematurity is a public health problem that calls to focus on its causes and consequences through a trans disciplinary approach. There are no studies analyzing premature birth from the perspective of individuals born preterm. OBJECTIVE: To identify social representations associated with premature birth of individuals born preterm in the 1990s in Argentina. POPULATION AND METHODS: Twelve focus groups were conducted with individuals born preterm with a birth weight<1500 g assisted at tertiary care facilities between 1990 and 1995. Focus group contents were analyzed based on the social representation theory. RESULTS: Fifty-nine adolescents and youth participated; their median age was 18.5±2.3 years old. Based on the analysis of focus groups, six core themes were developed: life experience, parents memories and experiences, overprotection body, education, relationship with the medical practice and knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: The methodology used allowed to create a space for mutual recognition and reflection for participants. Prematurity is a significant element, especially in those who suffered major sequelae. Adolescents and youth give a warning on the negative effects caused by overprotective parents and reveal the possibility of redefining the challenges associated with their history of premature birth.