Kristie McNealy, MD

I wanted to get back to basics for today, so here’s some information on preterm labor (PTL) that I think every woman should be aware of:

Nearly half a million babies are born prematurely in the United States each year, and this number is on the rise. That’s nearly a baby every minute, or 1 out of every 8 babies born in the US. Any delivery before 37 weeks is considered preterm, and prematurity is a serious problem which can lead to life long medical and developmental problems. The good news is that preterm delivery can sometimes be prevented or delayed with prompt medical attention.

The single most common risk factor for premature birth is a previous history of preterm delivery. Women who are pregnant with more than one baby (twins, triplets, etc.), as well as women with certain uterine and cervical abnormalities are also at an increased risk of going into preterm labor. However, most women who deliver preterm have none of these risk factors, and because of this, it’s important for every woman to be familiar with the possible signs and symptoms of preterm labor.

If you experience any of the following symptoms of possible preterm labor, contact your doctor or midwife immediately:

1. More than 4-5 uterine contractions in an hour
2. Back or abdominal pain which comes and goes rhythmically
3. Menstrual like cramping (my only symptom when I went into PTL with #3 at 32 weeks)
4. Leaking of fluid, bleeding or change in vaginal discharge
5. Pressure in the pelvis, like the baby is pushing down.

You don’t need to have all of these symptoms to be in preterm labor, and these are not the only symptoms a woman going into preterm labor can experience. If you are ever concerned that something is wrong, it is important that you contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital right away. Don’t let worry or embarrassment about being wrong delay your call, because prompt attention could provide vital extra time in the womb for your baby.