1. A Little Early
Premature labor happens when you start having contractions that cause your cervix to dilate before week 37 of your pregnancy. Premature rupture of the membranes is another way to go into premature labor. Babies who are born between weeks 34 and 37 generally do very well with very little medical intervention. Babies that are born before week 34 usually need a lot of help, including help breathing, in order to survive. When you go into premature labor, your baby is premature. If you go into premature labor, your doctors may try to delay your labor for a few days or longer if possible.
2. Increased Risk
There are many reasons why a woman may go into premature labor. Sexually transmitted diseases, infections, placenta previa and other problems with the placenta, a weak cervix, chronic illness or a large uterus because of excess amniotic fluid or more than one baby are all things that can cause premature labor. Mothers who use drugs, such as cocaine have an increased chance of going into premature labor. Smoking will also increase your risk for having preterm labor. Sometimes, there is no apparent cause for premature labor.
3. Know the Signs
Premature labor begins in much the same way as regular labor. If you notice that you are having regular contractions that increase in frequency and intensity before week 37 of your pregnancy, chances are good that you are going into premature labor. A few other signs of premature labor are a constant lower backache that is worse than normal, a sudden gush of fluid from your vagina, which signals that your water broke, vaginal bleeding or pelvic pressure. If you notice any of these signs, it is important that you contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital.
4. An Ounce of Prevention
There are some basic ways that you can lessen your chance of having premature labor. Go to all of your prenatal appointments. It may be tempting to skip one if you feel fine, but your health and your baby's health depend on you going to your appointments. Make sure that you eat a balanced diet and take your prenatal vitamins. Limit your stress, when possible. Stress can cause you to go into premature labor. Stop smoking if you smoke and avoid taking illegal drugs or medications your doctor didn't approve. If your doctor limits your activity, follow his guidelines without fail.
5. In Case of Delivery
Sometimes you cannot prevent premature labor, even with the best care. The best thing to do in this case is to turn your energy toward caring for your preemie. Premature babies need special care even after release from the hospital. Make sure that you have a paper and pen in the hospital to write out special instructions about how to care for your baby.
