Pregnancy Care
Preterm Labor: Signs, Risks and Prevention
Preterm labor occurs when regular contractions cause the cervix to open after week 20 and before week 37 of pregnancy. Prompt medical attention is important when preterm labor is suspected.
- Pregnancy before 37 weeks
- Contact your care provider promptly
Understanding Preterm Labor
Why Preterm Labor Matters
Preterm labor can lead to a premature birth. The earlier a baby is born, the greater the potential health risks.
Many babies born prematurely need special care in a neonatal intensive care unit. Some may also experience lasting physical or developmental health challenges.
The specific cause of preterm labor is often unclear. It can occur even in pregnancies without any known risk factors.
Overview
What Is Preterm Labor?
Preterm labor means regular contractions that cause the cervix to begin opening between 20 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. It may result in premature birth.
Although certain circumstances are associated with a higher likelihood of preterm labor, many cases have no clear cause. Any concern about early labor should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- Regular contractions with cervical opening
- Occurs after week 20 and before week 37
- Can lead to premature delivery
- May occur without known risk factors
Possible Complications
How Premature Birth May Affect a Baby
Premature delivery can be associated with short-term and longer-term health concerns. The source page identifies the following possibilities:
Low Birth Weight
A baby born prematurely may have low birth weight and need additional medical attention.
Breathing Difficulties
Prematurely born babies may face breathing problems and require specialised newborn care.
Organ and Vision Problems
Underdeveloped organs and vision problems are among the possible complications of premature birth.
Developmental Concerns
Premature birth is associated with a higher risk of cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and behavioural problems.
Healthy Pregnancy
Steps That May Help Reduce Risk
Preterm labor cannot always be prevented. The source page recommends the following measures to support a healthy pregnancy.
Regular Prenatal Care
Attend prenatal appointments so your healthcare provider can monitor your health and your baby’s health. Discuss any concerning symptoms or a history of preterm labor.
Healthy Diet and Lifestyle
Maintain good nutrition. The source notes research on polyunsaturated fatty acids found in nuts, seeds, fish and seed oils. Avoid smoking and illicit substances.
Plan Pregnancy Spacing
Discuss pregnancy spacing with your healthcare provider. Research suggests both very short and very long intervals may be associated with premature birth.
Manage Existing Conditions
Work with your healthcare provider to manage diabetes, high blood pressure or obesity. If using assisted reproductive technology, discuss the risks of multiple pregnancies.
Concerned about possible early labor?
If you notice concerning symptoms or are unsure whether contractions are real labor, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Speak With Your Healthcare Provider
Get Medical Advice if You Suspect Preterm Labor
If you experience possible symptoms of preterm labor, or are worried about how you feel, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It is better to have a false alarm checked than to delay care.
For appointment enquiries, contact Jilla IVF Center using the details below.
Medical information on this page is general and does not replace urgent, personalised advice. If you think labor may be starting early, seek immediate maternity care rather than waiting for an appointment response.
More About Risk Reduction
Important Points to Discuss During Pregnancy
Preterm labor can affect any pregnancy, including those without identifiable risk factors. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional precautions if your individual risk is increased.
Assisted Reproductive Technology
When planning pregnancy using assisted reproductive technology, discuss the number of embryos to transfer. Multiple pregnancies carry an increased risk of preterm labor.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity have been linked with increased risk. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing these conditions.
When to Seek Help
Do Not Delay Medical Advice
If you experience signs or symptoms that concern you, contact your healthcare provider right away. Do not hesitate because you worry that the symptoms might be false labor.
The original service page advises seeking prompt guidance for suspected preterm labor. Your medical team can determine what assessment or care you need.
Pregnancy Guidance
Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy
Regular prenatal visits, healthy nutrition, avoiding harmful substances, thoughtful pregnancy spacing and management of chronic conditions may help support a full-term pregnancy.
- Attend all recommended prenatal visits
- Share concerning symptoms with your healthcare provider
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid smoking and illicit drugs
- Discuss pregnancy spacing
- Discuss embryo-transfer decisions if using ART
- Manage diabetes and high blood pressure
- Follow individual recommendations for higher-risk pregnancies
Preterm Labor FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Preterm labor occurs when regular contractions lead to cervical opening after 20 weeks and before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Yes. The specific cause is often unclear, and preterm labor may occur even when no risk factors are known.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have concerning signs or symptoms. Do not delay because you think it may be false labor.
No. It is not always preventable. Regular prenatal care, nutrition, avoiding risky substances and managing chronic conditions may support a healthy pregnancy.
Premature babies may experience low birth weight, breathing difficulties, underdeveloped organs, vision problems or longer-term developmental difficulties.
