Preterm Labor

Preterm or premature labor is labor that begins early — before 37 weeks of pregnancy. A normal pregnancy period (fetal development) is about 40 weeks. A pregnancy is “at term” at 37 weeks — anything before 37 weeks is called preterm. Labor is the process your body goes through to prepare for childbirth. Common signs of labor include contractions (tightening of the muscles in your uterus) and your water breaking (rupture of membranes). If you’re experiencing preterm labor, your cervix (lowest end of your uterus) may open (dilate) earlier than usual.

Preterm labor may result in premature birth (being born early). However, labor can often be stopped to allow the fetus more time to grow and develop in the uterus. Treatments to stop premature labor include bed rest, intravenous (in your vein) fluids and medicines to relax your uterus.

In some cases, labor’s induced before the fetus reaches term. This typically happens when there’s a medical reason for delivery. Examples could be preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), placental abruption or the fetus isn’t growing (fetal growth restriction).

What is premature birth?

Premature birth (or preterm birth) is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Babies born before 37 weeks can have health complications like trouble breathing or low birth weight.

What triggers preterm labor?

There isn’t one trigger for preterm labor. Several factors can play a role in your body going into labor too soon. Some of these factors are related to your medical history, previous pregnancies and lifestyle. Sometimes people with no known risk factors have preterm labor.

Can preterm labor be stopped?

Sometimes, but it’s usually temporary. If you go into preterm labor, your healthcare provider may recommend certain medications to stop or delay labor. If those medications don’t work, other medications may help prepare the fetus for an early birth by maturing its lungs and organs.