“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Premature labor, also known as preterm labor, is when contractions begin to occur regularly and the cervix begins to open before 37 weeks of pregnancy. This can lead to the birth of a premature baby, which may have health problems due to underdevelopment.
The signs and symptoms of premature labor include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, to determine if you are in premature labor.
Treatment for premature labor may include medications to stop contractions or to help mature the baby's lungs if delivery is necessary. Bed rest and avoiding strenuous activity may also be recommended. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for close monitoring.
Prevention strategies for premature labor include:
It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your pregnancy and address any concerns about premature labor.