A full-term pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. Unlike the harmless Braxton-Hicks contractions (also known as “practice contractions” or “false labor”), preterm labor can lead to premature birth.

Preterm labor can occur between 20 and 37 weeks of pregnancy and may result in a preterm birth, which is not desirable. Complications vary depending on the gestational age at delivery. While some babies born at 23–26 weeks do survive, the earlier the birth occurs, the lower the chances of survival. A premature infant may experience respiratory difficulties due to immature lungs, apnea, intracranial bleeding, fluid accumulation in the brain, vision, hearing or gastrointestinal problems, neurological issues, or even cerebral palsy.

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Several factors can increase the risk of preterm labor, although the exact causes are not fully understood. Risk factors include multiple pregnancy, maternal and fetal stress (with cortisol potentially triggering early contractions), socio-economic factors, lifestyle, genetic predispositions, urinary, renal or vaginal infections, obesity, and pregnancy under age 18 or over 35. A short interval between pregnancies (less than 6–9 months from birth to the next conception) can also increase the risk. Unfortunately, preterm labor can sometimes occur without an identifiable cause.

How to Recognize Preterm Labor

It is crucial to identify the warning signs and symptoms of preterm labor early to seek urgent medical care. Doctors may attempt to stop preterm labor with medication, but this is not suitable for all pregnant women and is not always effective.

Warning signs and symptoms include:

• uterine contractions occurring six or more times per hour
• menstrual-like cramps in the lower abdomen, constant or intermittent
• continuous pressure or pain in the pelvis, thighs or groin
• persistent or intermittent lower back pain
• abdominal cramps with or without diarrhea
• increased or changed vaginal discharge (watery fluid, pink or brown discharge, or bleeding)

Any symptom that raises suspicion of preterm labor should be treated as a medical emergency. sacului, este posibil să fie prea devreme pentru un diagnostic cert. În astfel de cazuri, ecografia trebuie repetată pentru confirmare.

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Preterm Labor

If you have questions related to preterm labor or would like recommendations on evaluating and monitoring your newborn during the first days of life, you may request an individual consultation at any time. A thorough assessment helps determine the most suitable monitoring and support plan for your child.

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