Preterm Labor

Labor beginning before the end of the 38th week of pregnancy is called preterm labor. Preterm labor can lead to preterm birth. Babies born too early are often small and can have difficulties with breathing, eating and maintaining their body temperature. They may also have neurological problems. Children who were preterm babies are more likely to have behavioral problems or learning deficits than their full term peers. The baby may die if it is not developed enough for life outside the womb. In the U.S., 75% of newborn deaths (excluding congenital malformations) are attributed to preterm births.

What Causes Preterm Labor?
Preterm labor can be associated with uterine abnormalities (such as a "double uterus"), multiple pregnancies, problems with high blood pressure, infections of the uterus or amniotic fluid. About 50% of the time we do not know what has caused labor to begin early. Research continues to be conducted in this area.

Early Signs of Preterm Labor

• Constant dull, low backache
• Mild menstrual-like cramping, with or without diarrhea
• Contractions, or uterine tightening, which are regular - they may be painless
• Lower abdominal pressure
• Vaginal bleeding
• A change in the type of vaginal discharge or an increase in the amount
• Membraines rupture (bag of waters breaks)

If You Think You are in Preterm Labor

• Lie down on your left side and drink two to three glasses of water.
• If the contractions are closer together than ten minutes, call your doctor or midwife immediately.
• If you have more than five contractions in an hour, or if the above signs of preterm labor do not go away, call your doctor or midwife.
• If you have had very short labors in the past, call sooner, do not delay.

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