Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Infertility
901 East Cheves Street, Suite 200
Florence, SC 29506
843 662-2299
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| Signs and Symptoms of Preterm Labor |
Signs and Symptoms of Preterm Labor
Preterm labor is defined as delivery prior to 37 weeks (3 weeks prior to the due date). Preterm labor is the most common cause of fetal sickness and death in the United States. The Pee Dee area of South Carolina has the highest fetal perinatal mortality rate in the state. The majority of these fetal deaths are due to preterm labor. The frequency of preterm labor in the United States seems to be increasing despite increasing medical treatment. Because of this, it is very important to know the signs and symptoms of preterm labor.
Fortunately, McLeod Regional Medical Center and Carolina?s Hospital System can care for preterm babies. McLeod can provide care from fetal viability at approximately 24 weeks. Carolina?s Hospital System can provide care for preterm babies from approximately 35weeks.
The most common symptom associated with preterm labor are frequent contractions. Generally, contractions more frequent than five times per hour is significant. Also, symptoms such as increasing vaginal discharge, passage of mucus from the vagina, vaginal bleeding associated with mucus, pelvic pressure symptoms, are also symptoms of preterm labor. Rupture of membranes is another symptom of preterm delivery. Women experiencing leakage of fluid from the vagina need to be evaluated.
Contractions can be felt both in the lower abdomen, lower back, or as generalized abdominal discomfort. Generally, contractions feel like menstrual cramps or ?my baby is balling up?. The uterus tightens or becomes firm during contractions. The contractions that we are most concerned about last for approximately 1 minute and occur at a frequency of approximately 5 contractions per hour or more. Women can be having contractions that they do not feel. Therefore, it is important to look for other signs and symptoms of preterm labor. Sometimes, women experience what we call uterine irritability. With uterine irritability, the patient has frequent contractions that are very close together. These contractions are of short duration. During this time, a woman may feel like her uterus is tight for 10 or 15 minutes or longer. Although uterine irritability is not preterm labor, uterine irritability places a woman at risk for having preterm labor and should be evaluated.
Sometimes preterm contractions will stop or slow with resting on the left side and drinking fluids. It is reasonable to try this prior to going to the hospital. Usually one can watch these contractions for one or two hours prior to going to the hospital.
Women who have delivered a prior preterm baby due to preterm labor or rupture of membranes are at increased risk of another preterm baby. These women need to pay special attention to these signs and symptoms.
If you are experiencing preterm labor symptoms, please proceed immediately to the hospital where you will deliver. Your do not need to call the doctor on call. If you have questions, please call the doctor on-call or the office during office hours. The number is 843 662-2299. If you think your baby will deliver prior to arriving at the hospital or if you are having heavy vaginal bleeding or if you feel the umbilical cord in the vagina, please call 911.
Click here for a link to the March of Dimes web site for more information on preterm labor.
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