Preterm Labor Signs: How to Recognize the Signs and When to Call Your Doctor
Knowing the signs of preterm labor is vital for the safety of both you and your baby. Preterm labor happens when labor starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Timely recognition and response to preterm labor symptoms can be lifesaving, so pay close attention to any changes that may indicate early labor.
If you’re experiencing regular contractions, lower back pain, unusual vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, or leaking amniotic fluid, it’s important to seek medical advice right away. Read on to learn more about what preterm labor is, which symptoms are most concerning, and how to respond if you notice them.
What Is Preterm Labor?
Preterm labor refers to labor that begins before the 37th week of pregnancy. This can involve contractions, changes in your cervix, or the breaking of your amniotic sac too early. Preterm labor poses risks for fetal development and can affect the health of the mother as well, making expert care critical.
Who Is at Risk for Preterm Labor?
- Twin or multiple pregnancies
- Short cervix
- Previous preterm labor
- Infections or inflammation
- Very young or older maternal age
Keep in mind, however, that preterm labor can affect any pregnancy, not just those with these risk factors.
Most Common Signs of Preterm Labor 🤰
1. Regular Contractions
If you experience painful contractions at least four times an hour—especially before 37 weeks—these may be signs that labor is starting early.
How to tell the difference:
- Braxton Hicks contractions: irregular and usually painless
- Preterm labor contractions: regular, increasingly strong, and painful
2. Lower Back Pain
Sudden, continuous, or cramp-like lower back pain can be an early warning sign.
3. Changes in Vaginal Discharge
If your discharge becomes suddenly heavier, watery, mucus-like, or tinged with blood, this could indicate that your membranes have ruptured and amniotic fluid is leaking.
4. Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting
Even light bleeding or brownish spotting should be taken seriously, especially if it occurs along with other symptoms.
5. Pelvic Pressure
A feeling of pressure in your pelvis, as though something is pushing downward, may even create the urge to have a bowel movement. This can signal that the baby is moving lower.
6. Leaking Amniotic Fluid 💧
Amniotic fluid is thin, clear, and odorless. If you notice continuous wetness or leaking, seek medical care immediately.
Is It Preterm Labor or Something Normal?
Mild, irregular tightening—particularly after activity or in the evening—often indicates harmless Braxton Hicks contractions. However, regular, painful, and persistent symptoms could point to preterm labor.
Key differences between Braxton Hicks and true preterm labor:
- Are they happening at regular intervals?
- Are they becoming more intense or more frequent?
- Is there a change in discharge, bleeding, or leaking fluid?
If you notice regularity, increasing strength, or any accompanying symptoms, it’s a warning sign!
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
- Lie down on your left side to rest
- Track your contractions—time them and note how often they’re occurring
- Check the appearance of your discharge or bleeding
- Take your temperature
- Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have regular painful contractions, severe back pain, any bleeding, or leaking of amniotic fluid
When to Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- You notice fluid leaking that might be amniotic fluid
- Heavy or continuous vaginal bleeding
- Regular, painful contractions happening every 10 minutes or less
- Decreased or absent fetal movement
- You have a fever or chills
When In Doubt, Always Ask!
Worrying is natural, but it’s always better to reach out to your doctor for peace of mind than to wait until symptoms get worse.
Real-Life Examples of Preterm Labor Signs
Example 1:
At 25 weeks, Anna felt strong abdominal cramps and noticed some brown discharge multiple times an hour. Rest didn't relieve her symptoms, so she called her doctor, who sent her straight in for an evaluation. Because she acted quickly, preterm labor was successfully slowed down.
Example 2:
Kata, 33 weeks pregnant, suddenly experienced watery discharge while taking a walk. Thinking it was just increased discharge, she ignored it at first, but when it persisted, she went to the hospital. There, she learned her waters had broken early. With medical care, her baby was delivered safely.
Why Is Preterm Labor Dangerous?
Preterm babies often have underdeveloped organs, particularly their lungs, making them more vulnerable to breathing difficulties, infections, anemia, and feeding issues. Doctors strive to slow labor, provide treatments (such as steroid injections to help lung development), and create a safe delivery environment.
Mothers may also be at higher risk for bleeding, infection, or other complications during preterm labor and require close monitoring.
How Can You Lower Your Risk of Preterm Labor?
- Attend all scheduled prenatal visits
- Promptly treat any infections
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight and diet
- Minimize stress and ensure adequate rest
- See your provider more frequently if you have a history of preterm labor
When Should You ALWAYS Contact a Doctor?
- If you’re unsure about your symptoms
- If you experience more than one warning sign (such as cramping plus bleeding)
- If there’s a noticeable change in your baby’s movements
Don’t hesitate: quick medical care can save lives!
If you’re worried about preterm labor signs, you’re not alone. Early recognition and a calm, prompt response help keep you and your baby safe. Listen to your body, and whenever in doubt, ask for advice! You’ll find more reliable information and support in our free app, designed to help guide you through this special time.