It is the labour that begins prior to 37 weeks with evidence of painful and regular contractions, and a change in the cervix.
Signs of preterm labour include:
- Regular cramping (like menstrual cramps) or intermittent back aches.
- Increase in discharge
- Bloody discharge
- Increased pelvic pressure
- Risks for preterm labour include:
- Multiple pregnancy
- Prior preterm delivery
- Placenta previa and abruption
- Structural defects in the uterus or incompetent cervix
- Severe infections during pregnancy such as pyelonephritis (Urinary tract infections)
- Many women with preterm labour have no risk factors.
Preterm labour may result in preterm delivery or premature rupture of the membranes. Babies born afer 34 weeks do well in special baby care units. They have fairly a good chance for survival. As pregnancy progresses, the survival rate increases.
Medications are often used to stop labour. The woman may also be given corticoid steroids to help mature the baby’s lungs and reduce the risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.
