Preterm labour occurs when a woman goes into labour before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. Usually, a full-term pregnancy lasts between 39 and 40 weeks. Preterm labour can result in various health complications for the baby, such as respiratory problems and developmental delays. Learning the causes, symptoms, and treatment of preterm labour will ensure a positive outcome for both mother and baby.
Causes of Preterm Labour
Preterm labour can occur for various reasons; sometimes, no apparent cause gets identified. But, certain known factors can increase the risk of someone having preterm labour, including the following.
- Infections: Some infections, such as urinary tract infections and bacterial infections of the reproductive system, can affect the uterus and result in preterm labour.
- Multiple Pregnancy: Women carrying twins or triplets are at a higher risk of preterm labour due to increased pressure on the uterus.
- Age: Women who are under 18 years of age or above 35 years old have a greater chance of having preterm labour.
- Previous Preterm Birth: If a woman has experienced preterm labour in the past, she is more likely to experience the same in her subsequent pregnancies.
- Cervical Problems: In case a woman has a weak cervix, she may experience preterm labour.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Certain pre-existing health conditions like hypertension, diabetes and heart problems can cause complications during pregnancy and contribute to preterm labour.
- Lifestyle Factors: Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and drug use are risk factors for preterm labour.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of preterm labour have been stated below by the best high risk pregnancy doctor in Newtown.
- Frequent contractions
- Lower back pain
- Feeling pelvic pressure
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Abdominal cramps
- Fluid leakage
Treatments
Common treatments for preterm labour have been listed below.
- Medications: Medications can be given to slow down or stop contractions. This gives the baby more time to grow in the mother’s womb.
- Antibiotics: If there is an infection, the doctor recommends antibiotics to treat it. This also helps to prevent any complications.
- Cervical cerclage: In some cases, when cervical incompetence is detected, you will need to get a cervical cerclage to prevent premature labour.
- Lifestyle adjustments: You may be asked to reduce stress, quit smoking and alcohol consumption and take bed rest to reduce the chances of preterm labour.
So, if you identify with any of the aforementioned symptoms or are at risk of premature labour, consult Dr. Shivanjali Nayak, the best high risk pregnancy doctor in Newtown, for guidance.