Preterm Labor—Everything You Need to Know
A baby born before the completion of 37 weeks of gestation is called a preterm baby. Preterm labor is when the mother-to-be experiences labor before completing the 37 weeks of pregnancy. When the cervix dilates, and labor begins, it can usually cause a preterm delivery or preterm birth. The earlier the preterm birth happens, the riskier it is.
Mostly, preterm labor occurs between 20 and 37 gestation weeks. If the birth happens at 28 weeks or less, it is known as extreme preterm. If the preterm birth happens between 28-32 weeks, it is known as very preterm. If babies are born between 32-37 weeks, they are known as moderate or late preterm.
What causes preterm labor?
The exact causes of preterm labor are not known. They can happen due to various reasons. Some of the known causes of preterm labor are as follows:
Infections
Chronic conditions
Diabetes
Multiple pregnancies
Hormonal changes
Vaginal bleeding
Excess or less amniotic fluid
Who are at risk of preterm labor?
Most women have no known risk factors. They often go into preterm labor without any known cause. However, a few things can increase the risk of preterm labor.
World Health Organization (WHO) has observed that most preterm births occur in Africa and Asia.1 It could be due to geographical location or lack of proper healthcare facilities that causes more preterm labor in these zones.
Multiple pregnancies
Smoking, drinking, and substance abuse
Chronic heart or kidney disease
Being below 20 years and above 35 years of age
The congenital irregular shape of the uterus
Weak cervix
Abnormal fetal growth
Having a previous history of preterm birth
Abnormal placenta
Premature membrane rupture
Stress
Symptoms of preterm labor
Some of the common symptoms of preterm labor are as follows:
Premature contractions that are not Braxton-Hick contraction
Menstrual-like cramps
Pressure in the lower abdomen
Backache
Diarhhea
Change in vaginal discharge
Diagnosis of preterm labor
If you experience the above symptoms before 37 weeks, immediately consult your doctor. Your doctor will check your cervix and may also conduct specific tests to confirm preterm labor. He may perform an ultrasound test and check the amniotic fluid with an fFN test.
Treatment of preterm labor
Treatment is available for preterm labor. The most common treatment protocol is as follows:
Complete bed rest
Tocolytic medicines to help reduce or stop contractions
Corticosteroids help develop the baby’s lungs
Cervical cerclage is a procedure that stitches the cervix and closes it
Antibiotics are used to treat infections
Emergency C-section is the last resort if your doctor feels the baby or you are in danger. Preterm babies often require NICU admission
Conclusion
Premature babies may suffer from long-term health complications. The earlier they are born, the more health issues they may face. There is no confirmed way to prevent preterm labor. However, you can take some precautions to reduce the risk. Avoid smoking and drinking. Be regular with your prenatal check-ups. Eat healthy and exercise well. It is also important to rest and sleep well.
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