Preterm Labor Signs and Symptoms
Preterm Labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. This happens because uterine contractions cause the cervix to open earlier than normal.
Concerning Signs of Preterm Labor:
- Pelvic pressure or lower abdominal pressure or pain; feeling of baby “falling out”
- Constant low, dull backache below the waistline
- Regular or frequent contractions or uterine tightening that may be painless
- Vaginal bleeding (its normal to spot after vaginal exam)
- Water leaking from the vagina
Steps Before Calling Your Doctor:
- Empty your bladder
- Lie down towards your left side and rest
- Drink several glasses of water because dehydration can cause contractions
- Monitor contractions for one hour by counting the minutes from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning to the next
When to Call Your Doctor:
(949) 829-5500
- Four or more contractions per hour
- Bag of water breaks or leaking of fluid occurs
- Bright red vaginal bleeding or spotting