As an expecting mother, the last thing you want to think about is early labor. Unfortunately, preterm birth is more common than many realize. Around 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely, before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm babies often face developmental challenges, particularly with their lungs and digestive systems. The good news is, if you can identify early signs of preterm labor, you may be able to prevent complications and delay the birth, giving your baby more time to grow and develop.
What is Preterm Labor?
Preterm labor occurs when a pregnant woman goes into labor before 37 weeks. If you're approaching your due date and start noticing signs like abdominal pain, water breaking, or vaginal bleeding, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Top 3 Early Preterm Labor Signs to Watch Out For
1. Abdominal Pain and Contractions
One of the most common early signs of preterm labor is regular contractions. You may notice tightness or discomfort in your belly. Initially, the contractions may feel mild and irregular, but they will become more frequent and intense as labor progresses. If you're experiencing contractions more than 4 times every 20 minutes, this could signal the onset of preterm labor.
True vs. False Labor Contractions It can be difficult to tell whether you're experiencing real labor or just Braxton Hicks (false labor). Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be irregular, short-lived, and mild. However, if you notice that the pain becomes more frequent and intense over the course of an hour, or if it is accompanied by any of the other signs of preterm labor, such as vaginal bleeding or leaking water, it’s time to go to the hospital.
2. Water Breaking (Premature Rupture of Membranes)
When your water breaks, it means the sac surrounding your baby has ruptured, releasing amniotic fluid. You may feel a sudden gush or a slow leak of fluid that you cannot control. If this happens before 37 weeks, it’s a strong sign that labor could begin soon, or that preterm labor may already be underway.
How to Tell If It’s Amniotic Fluid If you're unsure whether it's amniotic fluid, try tightening your pelvic muscles as if you're holding in urine. If the fluid stops, it’s most likely urine. If it continues to flow, it’s likely amniotic fluid. Keep in mind that if you notice even a small amount of fluid, it’s always safest to contact your doctor.
3. Vaginal Bleeding
Any vaginal bleeding or spotting before 37 weeks is a cause for concern. This could be an indication of a miscarriage, placental issues, or preterm labor. If you notice any blood—whether bright red or brownish—during pregnancy, seek medical advice immediately. Even a small amount of bleeding can signal that something is wrong.
What to Do If You Have Preterm Labor Signs
If you notice any of these early preterm labor signs, don’t wait—seek immediate medical care. Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy and the severity of the symptoms, your doctor will evaluate your situation and decide on the best course of action.
- For pregnancies under 34 weeks, doctors may try to delay labor by giving medications to stop contractions and help your baby’s lungs mature.
- For pregnancies over 34 weeks, your doctor may not attempt to stop labor, as babies born after this point generally have a better chance of survival.
Regardless of the situation, it's essential to follow your doctor’s advice. They’ll assess your condition and guide you through the best next steps to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
While preterm labor is always a concern, recognizing its signs early can make a world of difference in ensuring the best outcome for both mom and baby. Always trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Early detection and intervention are key to managing preterm labor successfully.
