Preterm Labor

It is very important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labor. Preterm labor is defined as labor that begins three or more weeks before your due date. Preterm labor is usually not painful. The warning signs of preterm labor include the following.

• Uterine contractions which happen every 10 minutes or more often.
• Menstrual-like cramps which come and go or don't go away.
• Pelvic pressure which feels like the baby is pushing down. This also may come and go.
• Low, dull backache which comes and goes or doesn't go away.
• Abdominal cramping with or without diarrhea.
• Increase or change in vaginal discharge.

If you have any of the above symptoms of preterm labor, we will want you (1) drink two or three glasses of water or juice; (2) lie down on your side for an hour. If the signs do not go away, or if you have fluid leaking from your vagina, call the doctor immediately. Keeping well-hydrated with 10-12 glasses of water a day will make your uterus less irritable.

Note: This information applies only to Lansing OB/GYN Associates.

Prenatal Instructions: Lansing OB/GYN Associates Office Procedures Physical Changes During Pregnancy "Anytime Sickness" Constipation When to Call the Office Emotional Changes Dos and Don'ts Sexual Intercourse Dental Hygiene Travel Toxoplasmosis Childbirth Education Herpes Virus Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Birth Exercise Preterm Labor Choice of Infant Feeding Relax Prenatal Instructions Brochure (PDF printable brochure)