What are some signs and symptoms of preterm labor and what whould I do if I am experiencing any of them?
• Menstrual-like cramps (constant or occasional). • Low, dull backache (constant or occasional) • Pelvic pressure (feels like the baby is pushing down). • Abdominal cramping (with or without diarrhea). • Increase or change in mucous vaginal discharge. • Uterine contractions every 10 minutes or more often (may be painless). • Call your doctor right away if you’re bleeding or you feel water leaking from your vagina. What You Should Do If You Experience Preterm Labor Symptoms: • Stop what you are doing. • Lie down on your left side for one hour. • Drink 2-3 glasses of water or juice. • Call your health care provider or go to the hospital if the symptoms get worse during that hour. • Return to light activity if the symptoms go away after that hour. Do not do what you were doing when the symptoms began! • If the symptoms come back after an hour of rest, call your provider. Never ignore your symptoms or assume they aren’t important. • Be sure to tell your provider at your next prenatal visit
