Premature Labor

Preterm Labor Discharge Instructions

Pregnancy most often lasts 40 weeks. Preterm or premature births happen when a baby is born less than 37 weeks into pregnancy. The baby may be born through the vagina or with a C-section. Your body will respond the same way, even though you have had your baby early. When a baby is born prematurely, the baby may not be ready to live outside the womb. The organs may not be fully developed. A baby who is born early will need extra care in a hospital. It may take a few weeks before the baby is allowed to go home. The earlier a baby is born, the more problems a baby may have. Premature babies are also more likely to have health problems throughout their life than babies who are not born early.

Stop or slow contractions,Fight an infection,Help your baby's lungs develop before birth

Rest as much as you can. Lie on your left side to help with circulation to your womb.,Some women have more contractions when active. Ask your doctor what kinds of activities and how much activity you should do.,Talk with your doctor about when you can have sex.

Infection,Bleeding,Blood clots,Baby is born too soon to live outside of the womb

Contractions every 10 minutes or more often,Low, dull back pain that does not go away,Pressure in your pelvis that feels like your baby is pushing down,Watery or bloody fluid leaking from your vagina,Cramps in your lower belly that come and go or are constant,Change in your baby's movement,Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

Emergency Medicine,Reproductive

Braxton Hicks Contractions,Labor,Premature Birth,Premature Labor,Preterm Birth

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.

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