Preterm labor: Take prevention seriously
Preterm labor: Take prevention seriously
A full-term pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. Sometimes, however, contractions begin to open the cervix before week 37. This is known as preterm labor. While the specific cause of preterm labor often isn't clear, you can take steps to prevent it and promote a healthy pregnancy.
Why is preterm labor a concern?
If preterm labor can't be stopped, your baby will be born too soon. And the earlier preterm birth happens, the greater the risks for the baby — including low birth weight, breathing difficulties, underdeveloped organs and potentially life-threatening infections. Children who are born prematurely also have a higher risk of learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and behavioral problems.
Who's at risk of preterm labor?
Preterm labor can affect any pregnancy. Common risk factors include:
Still, many women who have preterm labor have no known risk factors.
Can preterm labor be prevented?
There are no guarantees — but there's much you can do to nurture a healthy, full-term pregnancy:
If you have a history of preterm birth, your health care provider might suggest weekly shots of a form of the hormone progesterone to decrease your risk of another preterm birth. In addition, new research shows that treatment with a vaginal progesterone gel during the second and third trimesters might decrease the risk of preterm birth in women who have short cervixes.
What are the signs and symptoms of preterm labor?
For some women, the clues of preterm labor are unmistakable. For others, the signs and symptoms are more subtle. Be on the lookout for:
If you're concerned about what you're feeling — especially if you have vaginal bleeding accompanied by abdominal cramps or pain — contact your health care provider. Don't worry about mistaking false labor for the real thing. Everyone will be pleased if it's a false alarm.
Can preterm labor be stopped?
While you're evaluating your contractions, drink a couple of glasses of water or juice. If you're experiencing false labor, the fluids might stop your contractions. In other cases, lying down — usually on your left side to improve circulation to your uterus — can halt false labor. Sometimes bed rest is recommended, although bed rest isn't a proven remedy for preventing preterm birth.
If you're admitted to the hospital, your health care provider might:
What if the contractions continue?
Many women treated for preterm labor deliver at or near term. Sometimes, however, preterm labor can't be stopped — or an infection or other complications make an early delivery safer for mother or baby.
If you're between weeks 23 and 34, your health care provider might recommend an injection of potent steroids to speed your baby's lung maturity. After week 34, your baby's lungs might be mature enough for delivery without steroids.
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 might recommend an epidural block, a spinal block or other options.
Pediatric experts might 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 could be magnified by your baby's condition. Preemies often need intensive medical care after birth, sometimes requiring lengthy hospital stays. This time will be busy and stressful. Surround yourself with supportive loved ones and friends. Accept their help in caring for your baby or older children.
After one preterm birth, you're at risk of a subsequent preterm birth. Work with your health care provider to manage any risk factors and respond to early warning signs.
Last Updated: 2011-05-21
© 1998-2014 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
Terms and conditions of use