Preterm Labor Resources from UPMC in Central Pa.

Preterm labor occurs when your body prepares to give birth too early in your pregnancy.

Labor is considered premature if it starts before your 37th week of pregnancy. Most babies who are born early eventually catch up to their full-term peers however, premature infants have a higher risk of long-term health problems, including autism, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, lung problems, vision impairment and hearing loss.

Risk Factors for Preterm Labor

You may be at a higher risk of premature labor if you receive poor prenatal care or if you have certain medical conditions, including:

Being very overweight or underweight before pregnancy
Substance abuse issues-smoking, using cocaine or crack)
High blood pressure
Preeclampsia
Diabetes
Blood clotting disorders
Infections
Pregnancy with a baby who has birth defects
Pregnancy due to in vitro fertilization
Pregnancy with multiples, such as twins or triplets
Family or individual history of premature labor
Getting pregnant too soon after having a baby

Symptoms of Preterm Labor

Knowing the warning signs of preterm labor can greatly increase your chances of preventing early delivery. If you experience preterm labor, it is important that you act quickly and contact your physician. Symptoms of preterm labor include:

Backache
Contractions
Cramping
Fluid leaking from your vagina
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Increased pressure in your pelvis or vagina
Increased vaginal discharge
Vaginal bleeding in any amount

Treatment

Your physician will monitor your baby’s heart rate and check to see if your cervix is opening. He or she may also do a special fetal fibronectin test, which helps to predict your risk of delivering your baby early. If your physician thinks you are going into preterm labor, he or she may recommend that you go to the hospital for further treatment, including:

IV fluids
Antibiotics
Medication to decrease the risk your baby will have breathing difficulties
Medication to stop labor by relaxing your uterus

Need more information?

Phone: 717-231-8472

Talk to your doctor if you have questions about pregnancy complications.

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