There are some things health providers may be able to do to delay labor and to decrease the risks faced by a baby born preterm if care for premature labor and early delivery is received in time.

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Tocolytics are a type of medication that may be used by your health provider to slow contractions. Cervical cerclage is a surgical technique that is sometimes used to stitch the cervix closed to delay delivery.

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Corticosteroids can help promote a baby's lung development. If you are at increased risk of delivery in the next one to seven days, your doctor may recommend the use of steroids. Magnesium sulfate may be given to decrease the risk of brain damage if you have a high risk of preterm delivery before 32 weeks.  

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As described by the United States Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), early signs of preterm labor include: 

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• contractions (the abdomen tightens like a fist) every 10 minutes or more often

• change in vaginal discharge (a significant increase in the amount of discharge or leaking fluid or bleeding from the vagina)

• pelvic pressure—the feeling that the baby is pushing down

• low, dull backache

• cramps that feel like a menstrual period

• abdominal cramps with or without diarrhea

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As recommended by the CDC:

 

 "If you think you are experiencing preterm labor, it is important that you see a healthcare provider right away."

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It is critical that you talk about your risk for preterm birth with your prenatal provider. 

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Read More About URGENT Maternal Warning Signs that require immediate medical attention HERE.

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