What is preterm labor?
Preterm labor is labor beginning before your 37th week of pregnancy. A normal-term pregnancy lasts from 38-42 weeks. Preterm labor is a concern because a baby may not have had enough time to develop and may have health problems or developmental issues. A woman carrying multiple infants (twins, etc.) usually has a higher risk of going into preterm labor. Studies show that there is a higher risk of injury to male twins when terbutaline is used to control preterm labor.
Labor starts with regular contractions of the uterus. The cervix thins out (effaces) and opens up (dilates) so the baby can enter the birth canal. It is not known for certain what causes labor to start. Hormones produced by the woman, placenta, and fetus play a role. Changes in the uterus, which may be caused by these hormones, may cause labor to start. There are many reasons for preterm labor. In most cases of preterm labor, however, the exact cause is not known. Why the Concern? Preterm birth accounts for most newborn deaths. Growth and development in the last part of pregnancy are vital to the baby’s health. The earlier the baby is born, the greater the chance he or she will have health problems. Preterm babies (also called premature babies or “preemies”) tend to grow more slowly than term babies. They also may have problems with their eyes, ears, breathing, and nervous system. Learning and behavioral problems are more common in children who were preterm babies. Signs of Preterm Lab
