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Step 1
Note any contractions. Tightening of the belly is a sign of preterm labor. Whether they are Braxton-Hicks or not can be determined only by a physician. Irregularity usually indicates they are Braxton-Hicks. But sometimes true contractions seem irregular because some go unnoticed. Any contractions prior to 37 weeks should be reported to, and investigated by, a doctor.
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Step 2
Get an exam by an obstetrician. The doctor can tell if dilation or effacement have occurred, a key sign of preterm labor. Dilation is measured in centimeters, ranging from completely closed to fully dilated at 10 centimeters. Effacement is generally noted in percentage form, and refers to how thick the cervix is, ranging from no effacement, or thick cervix, to fully effaced, where the cervix is completely thinned out.
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Step 3
Take seriously any sensations of pressure. Pressure felt in the pelvic region is a sign of preterm labor.
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Step 4
Don't ignore twinges in the vaginal area. More specifically, in the cervical region. These twinges can be signs of dilation or effacement, which occurs in preterm labor.
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Step 5
Identify high risk for preterm labor. Certain medical conditions such as polyhydramnios or gestational diabetes, as well as past preterm labor, put the mother at risk for preterm labor.
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Step 6
Check for blood or blood-tinged discharge. Dilation sometimes causes bleeding in small amounts, and losing a mucous plug results in a mass of blood-tinged matter. Any blood should be reported to doctors immediately, and if they can't be reached, it warrants a trip to the ER.
