PRETERM LABOR what you should know?

Ok, you are almost there, - the third trimester of pregnancy. But what red flags should keep you on your toes?

Preterm labor is labor that begins before the end of 36 weeks of pregnancy. The premature infant

may develop problems with breathing, feeding and body temperature control, especially in infants

born before 32 weeks of pregnancy. If discovered early enough, often preterm labor can be

stopped successfully, but the key is early detection.

Warning signs:

✏️Regular contractions or abdominal tightening or cramping.

While most patients have occasional Braxton-Hicks contractions, these should not be

closer than every 15 minutes apart. When that happens, you should drink 2 large glasses

of water and decrease your activity level; lie down in bed. If the contractions should

continue to increase in frequency and intensity, call the doctor right away.

✏️Pelvic, low abdominal pressure and low rhythmical backache.

While many patients experience some physical discomfort during the third trimester, any

unusual amount of pelvic pressure, low backache should be mentioned to your doctor.

✏️Change in vaginal discharge.

While most patients notice a greater amount of normal vaginal discharge during

pregnancy, any significant increase in amount or change in type. For example mucousy, watery or

bloody discharge should be discussed with the doctor. This also includes rupture of the bag of water.

📚NB!!! Don’t hesitate to call your doctor when you see something unusual! Wish you had a due date at the scheduled time!