How to Identify Premature Contractions

Pregnancy is a time of happiness, joy and anticipation. But it is also a time to expect the unexpected. Sometimes pregnancies just don'tt go as planned. If you've had one premature birth, there is a good possibility that you could have another. But premature labor may occur in a first pregnancy as well, so it is important to be prepared if the unexpected occurs. A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. When labor and delivery occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy, the result is a premature birth. It is important to know the risk factors and to be able to identify premature contractions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know the risk factors. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, you may be at risk for a premature birth. A woman who is pregnant with twins or triplets may give birth prematurely. If you've had an abortion or a previous premature birth, you may be at risk. Other risk factors include lack of prenatal care, obesity and high levels of stress.

2. Know the symptoms of premature labor. Women who are experiencing their first pregnancy wonder what a contraction feels like, but once a contraction occurs, it is fairly recognizable. A contraction feels like a cramping pain in the lower abdomen. As labor progresses, the contractions last longer and come more closely together. If contractions occur approximately every 10 minutes, or if you have 5 or more contractions within an hour, you are experiencing labor.

3. Notice whether there is any vaginal discharge. If you notice the presence of a watery fluid, the bag of water has broken, which is another indication of the onset of labor.

4. Observe whether pelvic pressure is present. As the baby moves down into the birth canal, increased pressure in the pelvic region will be felt.

5. Notice whether there is pain in the lower back. A low backache often accompanies labor.

6. Monitor the symptoms of premature labor. If you experience what you believe to be premature contractions, monitor your symptoms closely. There is always the possibility that you could experience what is commonly known as "false labor," but it is always best to go to the hospital if you experience contractions, bleeding or any of the symptoms mentioned above. If contractions occur every 10 to 12 minutes, contact your doctor and prepare to go the hospital, since the chances are very likely that you are experiencing premature labor.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult with your doctor to find out more about premature contraction, and use the information in this article only in conjunction with your doctor's advice.