Pregnant? Help prevent preterm labor by taking good care of yourself.
No one knows exactly what causes preterm labor. It's a scary possibility, but that's not the end of the story. Taking good care of yourself can go a long way toward preventing preterm labor — and delivering a healthy baby.
When is labor considered preterm?
Most pregnancies last 38 to 42 weeks. Preterm labor refers to contractions that begin to open the cervix before week 37. Preterm labor is most common from weeks 29 to 37, but it can happen as early as weeks 20 to 28.
Why is preterm labor a concern?
If preterm labor can't be stopped, your baby will be born too early. Survival is possible for babies born as early as 24 to 27 weeks, but these preemies may face a lifetime of health problems. Even larger preemies may face serious complications — including low birth weight, breathing and digestive difficulties, underdeveloped organs, learning disabilities and developmental problems.
Who's at risk?
Various factors increase the risk of preterm labor, including:
- A previous preterm labor or preterm birth
- Pregnancy with twins, triplets or other multiples
- An infection of the amniotic fluid or fetal membranes
- Other infections, including urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases
- Excess amniotic fluid
- Abnormalities in the uterus or problems with the cervix or placenta
- Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
- Certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes
- Pregnancy before age 17 or after age 35
- Multiple miscarriages or abortions
- Stressful life events, including the death of a loved one and domestic violence
But preterm labor can happen to anyone. In fact, only half the women who have preterm labor have a known risk factor.
Can preterm labor be prevented?
There are no guarantees — but there's much you can do to nurture a healthy, full-term pregnancy.
- Seek regular prenatal care. Prenatal visits can help your health care provider monitor your health and your baby's health. Mention any signs or symptoms that concern you, even if they seem silly or unimportant.
- Eat healthfully. During pregnancy, you'll need more folic acid, calcium, iron, protein and other essential nutrients. A daily prenatal vitamin — ideally starting before conception — can help fill any gaps.
- Manage chronic conditions. Diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk of preterm labor. Work with your health care provider to keep any chronic conditions under control.
- Take care of your teeth. Brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and dental care. Researchers have found a link between gum disease and preterm birth.
- Limit stress. Set reasonable limits — and stick to them. Set aside some quiet time every day. Ask for help when you need it.
- Follow your doctor's guidelines for activity. As your pregnancy progresses, your health care provider may suggest working fewer hours or spending less time on your feet. Sometimes it makes sense to scale back other physical activities, too.
- Ask your health care provider about sex. It's not a concern for women with healthy pregnancies. However, sex may be off limits if you have certain complications — such as vaginal bleeding or problems with your cervix or placenta.
- Avoid risky substances. If you smoke, quit. Smoking may trigger preterm labor. Alcohol and recreational drugs are off limits, too. Even prescription and over-the-counter medications deserve caution. Get your health care provider's OK before taking any medications or supplements.
Recently, the hormone progesterone has shown promise in helping to prevent premature labor. However, much is yet to be learned.
What are the signs and symptoms of preterm labor?
For some women, the clues are unmistakable. For others, the signs and symptoms are more subtle. Be on the lookout for:
- Contractions 10 minutes apart or less (You'll feel a tightening sensation in your abdomen, often reminiscent of menstrual cramps.)
- Low, dull backache
- A sensation of pelvic pressure
- A cramp-like sensation in the thighs
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Watery vaginal discharge
If you're concerned about what you're feeling — especially if you have vaginal bleeding along with abdominal cramps or pain — contact your health care provider. Don't worry about mistaking false labor for the real thing. Everyone will be pleased to find out it was a false alarm!
Can preterm labor be stopped?
In some cases, drinking lots of fluids and lying down — usually on your left side to improve circulation to your uterus — can halt preterm labor. Sometimes continued bed rest is recommended.
If you're admitted to the hospital, you may be given fluids through an intravenous (IV) tube. A uterine monitor may be used to measure your contractions, and an ultrasound may be done to evaluate your cervix. Medication to stop the contractions may be given as well.
What if the contractions continue?
Most women treated for one episode of preterm labor deliver at or near term. Often, however, advanced preterm labor can't be stopped — or an infection or other complications make an early delivery safer for you or your baby.
If you're between weeks 23 and 34, your health care provider may recommend two treatments. To temporarily stop labor, you may be given a medication such as magnesium sulfate. It's often given intravenously or by injection. To speed your baby's lung maturity, you'll get an injection of potent steroids. After week 34, steroids aren't typically needed because lung development is more advanced.
What can I expect during labor?
Aside from starting too early, preterm labor typically resembles normal labor. If relaxation and breathing techniques aren't enough to control the pain, ask for relief. Your health care provider may recommend narcotic analgesics, an epidural block or other options.
A team of pediatric experts will be on hand for the delivery to evaluate your baby and meet any special needs.
What about recovery and future pregnancies?
Preterm labor won't affect your physical recovery from childbirth. However, the common stresses after delivery may be magnified by your baby's condition. Preemies often need intensive medical care after birth. This time will be busy and stressful. Surround yourself with supportive loved ones and friends. Accept their help in caring for your baby.
After one preterm birth, you'll have an 85 percent chance of carrying the next baby to term. After two consecutive preterm births, the chance of carrying a third baby to term dips to 70 percent. To boost the odds, work with your health care provider to manage any risk factors and respond to early warning signs.
Last Updated: 07/26/2005
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