{"id":1524,"date":"2023-08-28T17:18:54","date_gmt":"2023-08-28T17:18:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/comprehensive-obgyn-palm-beaches\/?p=1524"},"modified":"2023-08-28T17:18:54","modified_gmt":"2023-08-28T17:18:54","slug":"preterm-labor-how-to-recognize-it-what-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/comprehensive-obgyn-palm-beaches\/preterm-labor-how-to-recognize-it-what-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Preterm Labor – How to Recognize It & What to Do?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Premature labor, or preterm labor, can be defined as early labor, beginning before the 37th week of pregnancy. In most cases, a typical pregnancy period will last around 40 weeks out if these “at term” pregnancies are considered at the 37-week benchmark, and anything before that will be categorized as premature labor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In this article, our <\/span>maternity care specialists<\/span><\/a> have written down everything you should know about preterm labor, including the signs of preterm labor and the most efficient ways providers handle these situations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Defining Labor and Preterm Labor<\/b><\/h2>\n

Labor can be defined as the inherent procedure by which your body readies itself for childbirth. Indicators of imminent labor involve contractions, which denote the tightening of uterine muscles and the rupture of the amniotic sac, commonly known as “water breaking.” When faced with preterm labor, the cervix at the lower part of the uterus may dilate somewhat earlier than the usual timeframe.<\/span><\/p>\n

The possibility of preterm labor leading to premature birth, where delivery happens earlier than anticipated, exists. However, interventions often have the potential to halt the progression of labor, allowing the fetus to develop and mature within the uterus. Strategies to hinder premature labor encompass rest, administration of intravenous fluids, and medications designed to ease the tension in uterine muscles.<\/span><\/p>\n

In specific cases, labor is induced before the full term of pregnancy arrives. This typically arises due to medical requirements demanding an early delivery. Instances of such conditions encompass preeclampsia, a condition marked by placental abruption, hypertension during pregnancy, or cases of fetal growth restriction where the fetus’s growth is not proceeding as expected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Healthcare<\/p>\n

Preterm Labor: Triggers<\/b><\/h2>\n

You have to know that there’s no single trigger for premature labor. Usually, several factors lead to going into labor sooner than it should. Some factors directly relate to previous pregnancies, medical history, and lifestyle habits. There are cases when preterm labor happens simply without any apparent cause.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Stop Preterm Labor?\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

A better question would be whether it can be stopped, to begin with. Sometimes, it can be stopped, but in most cases, it will only be temporary.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In the event of entering preterm labor, providers might suggest specific medications aimed at halting or postponing the onset of labor. If these initial medications prove ineffective, alternative options could be introduced to assist in readying the fetus for a premature delivery by promoting the maturation of the organs and lungs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Preterm Labor Symptoms\/Causes<\/b><\/h2>\n

Being informed about the signs of preterm labor is paramount, as you will need to call your provider immediately if you are experiencing the most common preterm labor, especially if they don’t resolve within an hour and are accompanied by persistent and severe pain.<\/span><\/p>\n