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While most babies are born near their due date, 7 to 10 out of every 100 babies are born early. Preterm labor is any labor that occurs between 20 and 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Preterm labor can sometimes result in a premature birth. Medical options can help slow or stop early labor. That’s why you should let your clinician know right away if you think you are having preterm labor.
Warning signs
Having contractions does not always mean that you are in preterm labor. But watch for certain symptoms, including:
- Contractions or tightening of your abdomen 4 or more times an hour
- Menstrual-like cramps that come and go or stay constant
- Rhythmic back pain that doesn’t go away when you change positions or rest on your side
- Increase or change in vaginal discharge, such as heavy or mucus-like fluid, watery discharge, or blood
- Your water breaking
If you experience any of these warning signs, contact your clinician.
Treatment options
If you’re having preterm labor, treatment can help delay preterm birth. This may include hydration and medicine to stop labor.
One goal of treatment is to delay birth long enough so that medications can speed up the growth of your baby’s lungs.
If tests show that a bladder, kidney, or vaginal infection has triggered preterm labor, antibiotics can be used to treat the infection.
Prevention
To lower your risk of preterm labor, you can try:
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding alcohol or illegal drugs
- Receiving regular prenatal care
- Waiting at least 12 to 18 months between pregnancies
Some people, including those who’ve had preterm labor before, are at higher risk for preterm birth. To lower your risk, you can try:
- Using progesterone supplements
- Planning your pregnancy to occur when your body is ready
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
Your clinician will let you know if you are at higher risk for preterm birth and what steps to take for prevention. Be sure to discuss your medical history, including any prior pregnancies, with your clinician.