Preterm Labor

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Preterm (premature) labor occurs when the uterus (womb) contracts and the cervix opens earlier than normal. The cervix is the opening of your uterus. Preterm labor happens after the 20th week of pregnancy, but before the 37th week of pregnancy. An early labor could cause you to have your baby before he is ready to be born.

An infection, injury, multiple pregnancies, or a history of preterm labor or preterm birth may cause early labor. Signs and symptoms include abdominal (stomach) pain, menstrual-like cramping, low back pain, and vaginal spotting or bleeding. Pelvic exam, ultrasound, or fetal fibronectin test may be done to check if you are having early labor. Treatment may include bed rest or medicines. With treatment, including medications and bedrest, you may be able to stop preterm labor.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Keep a current list of your medicines: Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists. Use vitamins, herbs, or food supplements only as directed.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him about any medicine allergies, and if you want to quit taking or change your medicine.

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

Activity:

• Do not have sex if it causes your uterus to contract.
  
  
• Rest as much as possible. Lying on your left side will improve circulation to the uterus. You may prevent preterm labor by resting and reducing your physical activity.
  
  
• Talk with your caregiver before starting any exercise program. Ask your caregiver for examples of exercises that may hurt you or your baby and that you should not do.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have abdominal (stomach) cramps, pressure, or tightening.
  
  
• You have blood or liquid coming from your vagina or you have increased vaginal discharge.
  
  
• You have burning when you urinate or are urinating less.
  
  
• You have any questions or concerns about your pregnancy, condition, or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• The umbilical cord is hanging out of your vagina.
  
  
• You have bright red, painless vaginal bleeding.
  
  
• Your symptoms do not get better or are getting worse.
  
  
• Your water bag broke or you feel warm water gushing or trickling from the vagina.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Preterm Labor (Aftercare Instructions)