Five Things Every Pregnant Woman Should Know About Preterm Labor

No newly expectant mother wants to consider that she may not remain pregnant for the full forty weeks, but the reality is that at least a small portion of the pregnant population will deliver before 37 weeks (the gestational age at which a fetus is considered to be full term). Preterm labor can be stopped and does not necessarily indicate that a mo will deliver prior to 37 weeks. Knowing the facts about pretem labor can prevent preterm deliveries.

Preterm labor does not discriminate. Preterm labor can strike the drug-addicted mom or the mom next door. Preterm labor can strike white, black, Asian, or Latino women. There are certain factors that put some women at higher risk for preterm labor, but some women have no risk factors and still deliver prematurely.

The symptoms of preterm labor are as follows; more than 4-6 contractions within an hour, a change in vaginal discharge and vaginal bleeding that is red (as opposed to brown). If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure that you are hydrated and rest on your left side. If after an hour or so and after you are sure that you are well-hydrated, the symptoms do not subside, call your doctor.

Preterm labor can usually at least be postponed, if not stopped. If you are having any symptoms of preterm labor, call your doctor. If your doctor brushes you off, either find a new doctor or be persistent enough with your current doctor that he or she has to address your concerns.
If you are placed on bedrest, accept all the help offered to you. As hard as it is to be told that you can't get out of bed for the duration of your pregnancy, it is completely worth it to avoid having a NICU baby. If no one offers you help, then ask for it.

Everyday that your child remains in your womb makes your child stronger and more ready to meet the rest of the world.

Go easy on your husband. This is scary for him as well; he just doesn't know how to deal with his wife and unborn baby being put in danger. Encourage him, but make sure he understands the risks to you and to your child. Encourage him to talk to your doctor and to ask questions. Let him serve you as much as he can, but give him the freedom to escape the house once in a while too.

Preterm labor does not automatically mean that you will deliver early. Medical science is advancing everyday in this area. There are medications that can postpone labor until a more suitable date.

Even if you do happen to deliver early, NICU physicians and nurses are among the most knowledgeable and caring in the medical profession. Preemies born as early as 24 or 25 weeks can survive.

In short, be aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labor, but don't allow yourself to panic.