Summary: Preterm labor is labor that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy and may lead to premature birth. Recognizing symptoms and risk factors can help prevent complications. Seek medical attention if you experience signs of preterm labor.
- Symptoms: Regular contractions, back pain, cramping, pelvic pressure, fluid leakage.
- Preterm Labor: Occurs before 37 weeks, increasing health risks for the baby.
- Risk Factors: Infections, multiple pregnancies, stress, chronic conditions, prior preterm birth.
- Prevention Tips: Regular prenatal visits, proper hydration, stress management, and avoiding harmful substances.
- Medical Support: Early intervention can improve pregnancy outcomes—consult VPfW for expert care
Preterm labor occurs when contractions begin before 37 weeks of pregnancy. In some cases, preterm labor can lead to premature birth. For expectant mothers, recognizing the signs of preterm labor can help ensure the best outcome for mom and baby.
Not all early contractions lead to labor. Still, understanding preterm labor symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies can help you take proactive steps. Continue reading to learn how to identify preterm labor symptoms and what to do if you have concerns.
The Signs and Symptoms of Preterm Labor
If you experience any of the following preterm labor symptoms, contact your VPFW healthcare provider immediately:
- Regular contractions (every 10 minutes or less)
- Lower back pain or pressure
- Menstrual-like cramping
- Abdominal tightening or a feeling of “baby dropping”
- Increased vaginal discharge or fluid leakage
- Pelvic pressure or a sensation that the baby is pushing downward
Early detection of preterm labor symptoms is key to getting the care you and your baby need for the best pregnancy outcomes. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical guidance as soon as possible.
When Is Labor Considered Preterm?
Due dates in pregnancy are always estimates and never exact predictions. Even so, they can be helpful tools to help you plan ahead while you’re expecting.
Most babies arrive within a week before or after the due date provided by medical providers. Labor is considered preterm when it begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. At that stage, babies are still actively developing in the womb. The earlier the delivery, the greater the risk of medical problems.
What Causes Preterm Labor?
There’s no single cause of preterm labor. Several risk factors for preterm labor may increase the likelihood; however, preterm labor can happen without any known risk factors.
Risk factors may include:
- Infections. Urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis, or sexually transmitted infections.
- Carrying multiples. Twins, triplets, etc.
- A history of preterm birth
- Cervical insufficiency or uterine abnormalities
- High levels of stress or physical strain
- Certain medical conditions. Including diabetes or high blood pressure.
If you have any of these risk factors, you should discuss them with your doctor and be on high alert for symptoms.
How to Prevent Preterm Labor
First, if you experience the signs and symptoms of preterm labor, understand that it is likely not your fault. Pregnancies are complex, and many aspects may be out of your control.
However, medical science surrounding neonatal health has come an incredibly long way. In cases when preterm labor cannot be prevented, with the right care, you and your baby can still experience a happy, healthy life.
With that said, you may be able to lower your risk of preterm labor in the following ways:
- Attend regular prenatal visits to monitor your pregnancy’s progress.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
- Manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs, as these can contribute to early labor.
- Minimize stress and get plenty of rest to support a healthy pregnancy.
If you are at high risk for preterm labor, your doctor may recommend additional interventions. These might include progesterone therapy or cervical cerclage.
Manage Your Preterm Labor Risk with VPFW
If you suspect you’re experiencing signs of preterm labor, don’t hesitate to contact your provider. Quick action can make a significant difference in prolonging the pregnancy and ensuring the best outcome for your baby.
For compassionate and expert prenatal care, Virginia Physicians for Women is here to support you. Learn more about prenatal care at VPFW today.
