No, bed rest is not recommended for women at risk of preterm birth. Bed rest can increase the risk of blood clots, bone weakening, and loss of muscle strength. Cerclage : A procedure in which the cervical opening is closed with stitches to prevent or delay preterm birth. Cerebral Palsy : A disorder of the nervous system that affects movement, posture, and coordination. This disorder is present at birth. Complications : Diseases or conditions that happen as a result of another disease or condition.
An example is pneumonia that occurs as a result of the flu. A complication also can occur as a result of a condition, such as pregnancy. An example of a pregnancy complication is preterm labor. Corticosteroids : Drugs given for arthritis or other medical conditions.
These drugs also are given to help fetal lungs mature before birth. Fetal Fibronectin : A protein that is produced by fetal cells. It helps the amniotic sac stay connected to the lining of the uterus.
Fetus : The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization. Gestational Age : How far along a woman is in her pregnancy, usually reported in weeks and days. Hormone : A substance made in the body that controls the function of cells or organs. Magnesium Sulfate : A drug that may help prevent cerebral palsy when it is given to women in preterm labor who may deliver before 32 weeks of pregnancy. Neonatologist : A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders that affect newborn infants.
Progesterone : A female hormone that is made in the ovaries and prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy. Transvaginal Ultrasound Exam : A type of ultrasound in which the device is placed in your vagina. Ultrasound Exam : A test in which sound waves are used to examine inner parts of the body. During pregnancy, ultrasound can be used to check the fetus.
Uterus : A muscular organ in the female pelvis. During pregnancy, this organ holds and nourishes the fetus. Copyright by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
All rights reserved. Read copyright and permissions information. This information is designed as an educational aid for the public. It offers current information and opinions related to women's health.
It is not intended as a statement of the standard of care. It does not explain all of the proper treatments or methods of care. It is not a substitute for the advice of a physician. Signs and symptoms include the following: Mild abdominal cramps, with or without diarrhea A change in type of vaginal discharge—watery, bloody, or with mucus An increase in the amount of discharge Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure Constant, low, dull backache Regular or frequent contractions or uterine tightening, often painless Ruptured membranes your water breaks with a gush or a trickle of fluid If you have any signs or symptoms of preterm labor, do not wait.
Some risk factors include the following: Medical History Past preterm birth Short cervix measured during a transvaginal ultrasound exam Early cervical dilation measured during a pelvic exam Past procedures on the cervix Injury during a past delivery Pregnancy Complications Carrying more than one fetus Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy Infections during pregnancy Lifestyle Factors Low prepregnancy weight Smoking during pregnancy Dietary deficiencies Other Factors Younger than 17 or older than There are several tests that may be ordered: An ultrasound exam to estimate gestational age or to check the size of your fetus.
A transvaginal ultrasound exam to measure the length of the cervix. If the fetus would benefit from a delay in delivery, medications may be given to: Help the organs mature more quickly Reduce the risk of certain complications Attempt to delay delivery for a short time. Tocolytics typically are not given when: There are preterm labor symptoms but no changes in the cervix It is thought that delivery would be better for the woman or her baby Preterm labor has stopped Tocolytics can have side effects for the woman, some of which can be serious.
Treatments may include: Progesterone shots—If you have had a preterm birth with a single baby, and you are pregnant with a singleton again, you may be offered progesterone shots starting at 16 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Cervix : The lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagina. Dilation : Widening the opening of the cervix. A baby born before 34 weeks will almost always need to stay in the neonatal intensive care unit NICU for the first few days, weeks or, in some cases, months of his or her life.
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Preterm Labor. Medically Reviewed by Oluwatosin Goje, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. For the majority of women, pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks — but sometimes it ends earlier. Here's what you need to know about premature labor, including what causes it and what to expect if you do go into labor early.
Back to Top. In This Article. What is considered preterm labor? Preterm, or premature, labor occurs after week 20 of pregnancy and before week Continue Reading Below. Read This Next. Preeclampsia: Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment. Building on a successful year legacy, we support every pregnant person and every family.
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