- Had a previous preterm delivery
- Smoke cigarettes
- Drink alcohol
- Use illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine)
- Have little or no prenatal care
- Have high-stress levels
- Have a chronic like high blood pressure, kidney disease or diabetes
- Are underweight or overweight before pregnancy
- Are pregnant with multiples
4. What are the warning signs of preterm labor?
There are symptoms that may signal you’re in preterm labor. To prevent premature birth, the American Pregnancy Association suggests you call and/or see your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Five or more uterine contractions in an hour
- Watery fluid leaking from your vagina (this could indicate that your water has broken)
- Menstrual-like cramps in the lower abdomen that can come and go or be constant
- Low, dull backache felt below the waistline that may come and go or be constant
- Pelvic pressure that feels like your baby is pushing down
- Abdominal cramps that may occur with or without diarrhea
- Increase or change in vaginal discharge
It’s important to know that preterm labor does not always result in premature delivery. Some women with premature labor and early dilation of the cervix are put on bed rest until the pregnancy progresses.
RELATED: 7 Reasons Why Preterm Births Are Still on the Rise
5. How can preterm labor be prevented?
Women can have a healthier pregnancy by making sure they receive prenatal care as soon as they become aware they are pregnant.
Additionally, make sure you are doing the following:
- Take multivitamins and folic acid every day during your pregnancy.
- Be aware of your lifestyle habits and eating healthier will help to decrease preterm labor from happening to you as well.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs to help you to have a healthier fetus.
- See your doctor regularly. Inform your doctor if you have medical issues or family history which could impact your pregnancy.
- If you are working in an environment that exposes you to harmful substances, change your work environment. Work in an area where you do not have exposure to these chemicals.
- Make sure the meat you eat is cooked well and not under-processed.