Preterm Labor Signs
Preterm labor — contractions and cervical changes occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy — affects about 10% of pregnancies. Recognizing the early signs allows for timely medical intervention to delay delivery and improve outcomes.
Common Causes
- Uterine infection or inflammation
- Premature rupture of membranes (water breaking before labor)
- Cervical insufficiency (weakened cervix)
- Multiple gestation (twins, triplets)
- Placenta previa or placental abruption
- Prior preterm birth (strongest risk factor)
- Short cervical length identified on ultrasound
- Urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infection
Remedies That May Help
Go to the Hospital Immediately
If you suspect preterm labor, this is an emergency. Go to the hospital — do not wait to see if symptoms resolve.
Progesterone Supplementation (Preventive)
For women with a prior preterm birth or short cervix, progesterone supplementation reduces recurrence risk.
Cervical Cerclage (Preventive)
For women with cervical insufficiency, a stitch placed in the cervix (cerclage) can help prevent premature dilation.
Corticosteroids (Hospital Treatment)
If preterm labor is occurring between 24–34 weeks, steroids are given to accelerate the baby's lung maturation.
When to Call Your Doctor
- Regular uterine contractions (more than 4–6 per hour) before 37 weeks
- Lower back pain or pelvic pressure that comes and goes rhythmically
- A gush or trickle of fluid from the vagina (possible ruptured membranes)
- Pinkish or bloody vaginal discharge (bloody show)
- Significant change in vaginal discharge — more mucus, watery, or tinged with blood
- A feeling that 'something is different' — trust your instincts
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell preterm labor contractions from Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks are irregular, don't get stronger or more frequent, and often stop with hydration and rest. Preterm labor contractions are regular (every 10 minutes or less), get stronger over time, and don't stop with rest or water.
What should I do if I think I'm in preterm labor?
Call your provider or go to labor and delivery immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms resolve on their own. Time matters — early intervention can delay delivery.
Can preterm labor be stopped?
In some cases, tocolytic medications can delay labor by 24–48 hours — enough time to administer steroids for the baby's lungs. Stopping preterm labor entirely for weeks is rarely possible.
What is premature rupture of membranes (PROM)?
PROM is when the amniotic sac ruptures before the onset of labor. When it occurs before 37 weeks it is called preterm PROM (PPROM) and is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital evaluation.
Will I know if my water breaks?
You may feel a sudden gush of warm fluid, or a slow trickle. Amniotic fluid is clear to light yellow and may be hard to distinguish from urine — when in doubt, go to the hospital.