PREMATURE LABOR
1. HOW COMMON IS PREMATURE LABOR?
Premature labor complicates approximately seven percent (7%) of
pregnancies. It requires prompt medical intervention.
2. WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS?
a. Uterine contractions
b. Menstrual - like cramps
c. Intestinal cramps
d. Back pain
a. Pelvic pressure
f. Abdominal pain or pressure
g. Bladder pressure
h. Vague feelings of discomfort, etc.
3. ARE SOME WOMEN MORE LIKELY TO GO INTO PREMATURE LABOR?
Yes, a history of a premature birth increases the risk of a subsequent premature delivery approximately three times. Other predisposing factors are poor nutrition, infection, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, twin gestation, fetal abnormalities, smoking, use of alcohol and drugs. In approximately fifty percent (50%) of cases the cause is unknown.
4. HOW CAN PREMATURE LABOR BE TREATED?
Hospitalization, bed rest and medication to suppress uterine activity can all be used to treat premature labor. The goal is to extend the pregnancy until fetal maturity is reached. Home monitoring can be used in selected cases.
5. WHAT IF MY BABY IS DELIVERED PREMATURELY?
Specialized care is needed for premature infants. The primary risk to those infants is due to lung immaturity. The lungs are simply not developed enough to provide the necessary oxygen to the baby. The premature baby will most likely require a ventilator to breath for him/her.
PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE AT 924-6255 IMMEDIATELY IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THE ABOVE SYMPTOMS OR YOU THINK YOU ARE IN PREMATURE LABOR.
