What to Do in Case of Premature Labor

Premature labor (also known as preterm labor) occurs when regular uterine contractions cause the cervix to begin opening before reaching 37 full weeks of pregnancy. Prompt medical evaluation is critical, as early intervention can significantly improve health outcomes for both mother and infant.

Emergency Warning

If you are under 37 weeks pregnant and experience sudden vaginal bleeding, a leak or gush of fluid, severe pelvic pain, or contractions occurring every 10 minutes or more, call local emergency services (such as 911, 999, or 112) or go immediately to the nearest labor and delivery emergency department.

Recognizing the Signs of Premature Labor

Signs of preterm labor can be subtle or progress rapidly. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you observe any of the following symptoms before 37 weeks:

• Regular uterine contractions: A feeling of tightness or hardening in your abdomen that occurs 6 or more times in an hour.
• Constant low backache: A persistent or intermittent dull ache in the lower back that does not ease when changing positions.
• Pelvic or abdominal pressure: A sensation that the baby is pushing down into the pelvis, or heavy abdominal fullness.
• Abdominal cramping: Mild to moderate cramps with or without diarrhea.
• Fluid leakage: A continuous trickle or sudden release of clear fluid from the vagina.
• Vaginal discharge changes: A marked increase in discharge, or discharge that becomes watery, mucus-like, or pink/bloody.

Step-by-Step Actions to Take

1. Contact emergency services or your doctor: Call your midwife, obstetrician, or emergency care services. Clearly state your gestational age and describe your current symptoms.
2. Lie down on your left side: Resting on your left side improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the uterus and baby.
3. Drink fluids: Drink two to three glasses of water. Mild dehydration can cause false or irritable uterine contractions.
4. Time your contractions: Track the start time of each contraction and how long it lasts. Note whether they become stronger, closer together, or regular over a 60-minute window.
5. Prepare for immediate transport: Have someone ready to drive you to the hospital, or wait safely for emergency responders.

What NOT to Do

• Do NOT ignore symptoms: Never delay seeking medical advice, assuming contractions are simply harmless false labor (Braxton Hicks).
• Do NOT place anything in the vagina: Avoid using tampons, douching, or having sexual intercourse if you suspect fluid leakage or early labor, as this increases the risk of infection.
• Do NOT take unprescribed medications: Do not attempt to take pain relievers, herbal supplements, or labor-stopping drugs without direct orders from a qualified physician.
• Do NOT drive yourself to the hospital: Have a companion drive you or call an emergency ambulance so you can remain safely seated or reclined.

What to Expect at the Hospital

Upon arrival at the hospital, clinical staff will assess your vital signs, monitor fetal heart rate, evaluate contraction patterns, and perform a non-invasive examination to check for cervical changes or amniotic fluid leakage. Early evaluation allows the care team to determine the safest course of management for your pregnancy.

This guide provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding pregnancy complications, and call emergency services immediately during a medical emergency.