Preterm Labor

Preterm labor is a medical condition that occurs when a woman's body prepares for birth too early, before the 37th week of pregnancy. This can lead to preterm birth, which is the birth of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of preterm labor is often unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including:

• Prior history of preterm labor or preterm birth
• Multiple pregnancy (carrying twins, triplets, etc.)
• Cervical insufficiency or cervical shortening
• Infections, such as urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections
• Chronic medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
• Smoking or substance abuse during pregnancy
• Poor nutrition and inadequate prenatal care

Symptoms

The symptoms of preterm labor can be similar to those experienced during normal labor, but may occur earlier in the pregnancy. They include:

• Regular uterine contractions that cause the cervix to begin to open (dilate)
• A low, dull backache
• A feeling of pressure in the pelvis or vagina
• Bleeding or spotting
• Rupture of membranes (the breaking of water)

Diagnosis and Treatment

If a woman is experiencing symptoms of preterm labor, her healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and may use the following tests to diagnose preterm labor:

• Pelvic exam to check for cervical dilation and effacement (thinning)
• Ultrasound to check fetal age and well-being
• Fetal monitoring to track the baby's heart rate and movement

Treatment for preterm labor depends on the gestational age of the fetus and the severity of the condition. It may include:

• Bed rest or reduced activity to reduce stress on the uterus
• Medications to stop contractions, such as tocolytics
• Corticosteroids to promote fetal lung maturity
• Antibiotics if an infection is present
• Hospitalization for close monitoring and treatment

Complications and Prevention

Preterm labor can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and baby, including:

• Low birth weight and respiratory distress syndrome in the baby
• Infections and other health problems in the baby
• Premature rupture of membranes and placental abruption

To prevent preterm labor, women can take the following steps:

• Receive regular prenatal care to monitor fetal development and detect any potential complications early
• Avoid smoking and substance abuse during pregnancy
• Maintain good nutrition and a healthy weight
• Manage chronic medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes