Signs of Preterm Labour and When to Seek Medical Help

Preterm labour occurs when labour begins before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are considered preterm; the earlier a baby is born, the greater the possibility of needing specialised medical care after birth.

Lucknow is becoming a hub for seeking consultations on preterm labour due to its advanced medical technologies and trained professionals. If you are a resident of Lucknow, run a quick search for “gynecologists near me” to get introduced to leading professionals and learn more about preterm labour.

What Is Preterm Labour?

Preterm labour means that regular contractions are causing changes in the cervix before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Cervical changes can include thinning or opening of the cervix.

These contractions are different from occasional contractions that occur during pregnancy without causing cervical changes. 

This preterm labour can happen spontaneously or may be associated with conditions such as problems with the placenta, infection, multiple pregnancy, or other pregnancy-related complications.

Common Signs of Preterm Labour

The symptoms of preterm labour vary; some women can experience several signs while others may notice only one. Some of these signs are:

• Regular or Frequent Contractions

One of the important signs is contractions that become regular, frequent, or progressively stronger. Unlike occasional tightening that may come and go, contractions associated with preterm labour may continue even after resting or changing position. 

• Lower Abdominal or Menstrual-Like Cramps

Cramping that feels similar to menstrual pain can sometimes occur with preterm labour. It may be accompanied by pelvic pressure, lower back pain, or changes in vaginal discharge.

• Lower Backache

A new, persistent, or unusual dull ache in the lower back can be another possible sign. This is more concerning when it occurs together with abdominal cramping, pelvic pressure, contractions, or changes in vaginal discharge.

• Pelvic Pressure

Some women describe a feeling that the baby is pushing downward or that there is increased pressure in the pelvis. If pelvic pressure occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, reach out to your doctor.

• Changes in Vaginal Discharge

Noticeable changes in vaginal discharge can occur before preterm labour, such as:

1. A sudden increase in discharge

2. Watery discharge

3. Mucus-like discharge

4. Pink or blood-tinged discharge

5. A change accompanied by pelvic pressure or contractions

• Leakage of Fluid

A sudden gush or continuous trickle of watery fluid from the vagina may indicate that the membranes surrounding the baby have ruptured.

• Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can have several causes, but bleeding before 37 weeks should be discussed right away with a healthcare professional.

Preterm Labour vs Braxton Hicks Contractions

Let’s learn the difference between preterm labour and Braxton Hicks contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as practice contractions, occur during pregnancy. They are generally irregular and do not progressively cause the cervix to open.

Preterm contractions are different because they become regular, frequent, stronger, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pressure, backache, bleeding, or fluid leakage.

What Can You Do If You Notice Symptoms?

If you are noticing possible signs of preterm labour, follow these steps:

• Stop strenuous activity and pay attention to your symptoms.

• Note when contractions begin and how frequently they occur.

• Contact your obstetrician or maternity unit for advice.

• Follow the instructions given by your healthcare team.

• Seek urgent medical care if you have heavy bleeding, significant fluid leakage, severe pain, or feel seriously unwell.

How Is Preterm Labour Managed?

Not every case of suspected preterm labour results in premature birth. Instead, preterm labour management depends on several factors such as the number of weeks of pregnancy, whether labour is progressing, the condition of the mother and baby, and whether the membranes have ruptured.

Depending on the individual circumstances, doctors may use medicines or other interventions to delay delivery when appropriate. Depending on the gestational age, doctors may consider treatments like corticosteroids to support fetal lung development. 

The Cloudnine Advantage

Cloudnine has leading professionals who provide maternity care with obstetric and gynaecological support throughout pregnancy, including care for pregnancies that require closer monitoring.

If you are a resident of Lucknow searching for “gynaecologist hospital near me” in Lucknow, you will be introduced to a hospital like Cloudnine, where you can consult gynaecologists about pregnancy symptoms, previous pregnancy complications, preterm birth risk factors, and concerns such as contractions, bleeding or fluid leakage.

Conclusion

Preterm labour begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy; the causes of it vary from medical and genetic reasons to environmental reasons. Regular contractions, persistent lower backache, pelvic pressure, menstrual-like cramps, changes in vaginal discharge, fluid leakage, and vaginal bleeding are important signs to pay attention to.

If you are experiencing two or three of these signs before 37 weeks, contact a doctor right away. Or search online for “gynecologists near me” in Lucknow to get introduced to professionals like those at Cloudnine. Book a consultation right away for a safe pregnancy journey!