Preterm labour, also known as premature labour, refers to the onset of labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Normal pregnancies typically last around 40 weeks, and preterm labour occurs when the body begins to contract and open the cervix earlier than expected, putting both the baby and mother at risk. It’s crucial for expecting mothers to be aware of the signs and causes of preterm labour so they can seek timely medical attention from the doctors of a gynaecology hospital in Dumdum if necessary.
Signs of Preterm Labour
Recognizing the early signs of preterm labour is key to preventing complications. Some common symptoms that may indicate preterm labour include:
- Regular Contractions: Contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, but if you experience regular, rhythmic contractions (more than four in an hour) before 37 weeks, this could be a sign of preterm labour. These contractions may feel like tightness or cramping in your abdomen, lower back, or pelvic area.
- Lower Abdominal Pressure: Feeling a constant pressure in your pelvic region, as though the baby is pushing down, could be a warning sign, especially if it’s accompanied by contractions.
- Back Pain: Persistent or dull lower back pain, especially when paired with other symptoms like contractions or pelvic pressure, may be an early sign of preterm labour.
- Changes in Vaginal Discharge: An increase in vaginal discharge or a sudden change in its consistency, such as watery, mucous-like, or bloody discharge, could indicate preterm labour. If you notice a significant change, especially if the discharge has blood or mucus, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
- Water Breaking: If your water breaks before 37 weeks, it means the amniotic sac has ruptured, and labour may follow soon after. If this happens, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care from a doctor in an obstetrics and gynecology department to reduce the risk of infection.
- Cervical Changes: In some cases, a healthcare provider may notice early changes in the cervix, such as thinning or opening, during routine prenatal exams. If detected early, interventions may be used to delay labour and give the baby more time to develop.
Causes of Preterm Labour
The exact cause of preterm labour is often not clear, but several factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing it:
- Previous Preterm Birth: If you’ve had a preterm birth in the past, you’re at a higher risk of experiencing preterm labour again. The risk increases with each prior preterm delivery.
- Multiple Pregnancy: Carrying twins, triplets, or more can increase the chances of preterm labour. The increased weight and pressure on the uterus can trigger early contractions.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or infections of the amniotic sac, can irritate the uterus and cause preterm labour.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including preterm labour. Proper management of these conditions is essential to reduce the risk.
- Uterine Abnormalities: Structural problems with the uterus, like fibroids, a short cervix, or a weakened cervix (cervical insufficiency), can make it more likely for the uterus to start contracting prematurely.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or drug use at the time of pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm labour. Inadequate prenatal care, poor nutrition, and being overweight or underweight are also linked to a higher likelihood of preterm birth.
Conclusion
In case you notice any signs of preterm labour, contact the best obstetrics and gynecology doctors in Dumdum at our hospital immediately to discuss your symptoms and receive the necessary care. Early intervention can make all the difference for both mother and baby.