Warning Signs of Premature Labor

Premature labor (also called “preterm” labor) is labor that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy, or more than 3 weeks before your due date. Premature labor can often be stopped if you catch it early. Check for warning signs every day.

  1. Uterine Contraction:
    • If you feel your uterus tightening or the baby “balling up”, this can also feel like menstrual cramps, abdominal cramps, or periodic low backache
    • 5 times or more in an hour, you might be in labor.
  2. Pelvic Pressure:
    • This feels like the baby is pushing down in your vagina.
  3. Change in Vaginal Discharge:
    • You may notice a sudden increase in your discharge, or it becomes more mucousy, watery or slightly bloody.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, you might be in premature labor and should:

  • Lie down on your left-side
  • Drink 2-3 glasses of water or juice
  • If symptoms are not gone in 1 hour
  • Call your doctor / midwife right away
Posted in Labor, Pregnancy