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Preterm labor — labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy — can lead to premature birth, which increases a baby’s risk of short- and long-term health risks. Learn more about your individual risk for preterm labor by talking with your midwife or OB. Approximately 1 in 10 babies in the United States are born preterm. The following is a list of events or conditions that can trigger preterm labor.
- History of previous preterm labor or premature birth
- Multiples pregnancy
- Infections
- Vaginal bleeding
- Being under or overweight
- Smoking
- Under 20 years of age or over 35 years of age
- Illegal drug use or prescription drug abuse
- Issues with uterus or cervix
- Stress
- Early placental separation
- Premature rupture of membranes (water breaking)
- Birth defects
- Family history of premature birth
- Getting pregnant quickly after prior birth (18 months is the recommended wait time)
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Domestic violence
- Event that causes injury to the abdomen or pelvic region, like a car accident or fall
Signs of premature labor include dull low backache, cramps in your abdomen or pelvic region, contractions (uterus tightens and releases – belly feels hard and then soft), water breaks, pressure down low in pelvis / vagina or rectum, and changes to discharge – blood or mucous. If you experience any of these, call your provider right away as they may be able to stop labor.
