Preterm labor
Preterm labor refers to the onset of labor before the 37th week of pregnancy. It is a significant cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity, and can lead to long-term health problems for the infant.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact causes of preterm labor are not fully understood. However, several factors have been identified that may increase the risk. These include:
- Multiple pregnancies
- Infections
- Chronic health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking or drug use
- Previous preterm birth
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of preterm labor can be similar to those of regular labor and may include:
- Regular or frequent sensations of abdominal pain
- A constant low, dull backache
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pressure
- Cramps
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Preterm labor is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and ultrasound imaging. The healthcare provider may also perform tests to check for the presence of fetal fibronectin, a protein that can be a sign of preterm labor.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The goal of treatment for preterm labor is to delay birth long enough to transfer the mother to a hospital that has a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and to give the mother corticosteroids to help speed up the baby's lung development.
Treatment options may include:
- Medications to stop or slow down labor
- Corticosteroids to speed up the baby's lung development
- Antibiotics to prevent or treat infections
- Bed rest
Prevention[edit | edit source]
While not all cases of preterm labor can be prevented, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. These include:
- Regular prenatal care
- Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs
- Managing chronic conditions
- Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight
See also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD