How to Prevent a Premature Delivery
Premature labor and delivery occurs when the cervix opens and contractions begin before 37 weeks of gestation, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are several early signs and symptoms of premature delivery, including a dull backache, contractions that occur at least eight times each hour, vaginal bleeding and a watery vaginal discharge. There are several ways an expecting mother can help prevent preterm labor, both during the pregnancy and if the signs and symptoms of preterm labor have been exhibited.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
During Pregnancy
-
1
Obtain regular prenatal care with a licensed doctor or midwife. Regular checkups during pregnancy allow a doctor to monitor the baby and mother's progress, including any warning signs of illness.
-
2
Avoid smoking, alcohol consumption and drug use. Use use of these substances can have a harmful effect on the health of the baby, and could contribute to the risk of preterm labor.
-
-
3
Maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and foods that contain folic acid, iron, protein and calcium. Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, should also be closely monitored, as they can contribute to the risk of premature delivery, according to the Mayo Clinic.
-
4
Avoid stressful situations. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can be accomplished by allowing time for oneself. Stressful situations, hot button issues and people who induce stress should also be avoided.
During Early Stages of Premature Labor
-
5
Empty the contents of your bladder, according to American Pregnancy.
-
6
Drink at least two to three glasses of fruit juice or water. According to American Pregnancy, this can help halt premature labor that is brought on by dehydration.
-
7
Lie down onto a comfortable surface, such as a couch or bed, on your left side. This can help relieve pressure on the uterus, which could halt preterm labor.
-
8
Avoid lying down on your back, which can intensify the contractions.
-
9
Contact your doctor if the signs and symptoms of preterm labor do not cease after one hour and if the contractions intensify or begin to occur closer together. The doctor might advise you to be hospitalized. Certain medications, such as magnesium sulfate, can be administered at the hospital to help stop premature labor.
-
1
