Know and Teach the Signs and Symptoms of Preterm Labor
While 17P can reduce a woman's risk of a recurring preterm birth by 33%, all mothers of premature infants are at a greatly increased risk for early birth. It is essential that health care providers continue to educate pregnant women who are taking 17P about the signs and symptoms of preterm labor.
The signs and symptoms are as follows:
Uterine contractions. Preterm labor contractions are often painless and occur every 15 minutes or closer.
Menstrual-like cramps. These are felt low in the abdomen, just above the pubic bone.
Low, dull backache. The backache is located mainly in the lower back and may radiate to the sides or front.
Pelvic pressure. The woman may feel pressure or a fullness in the pelvic area, back or thighs.
Intestinal cramps. These may occur with or without diarrhea.
An increase or change in vaginal discharge. Discharge may be more mucousy or watery. The color may become pink or brownish.
"Something's not right." Many women with preterm labor just have a sense that things do not feel as they did before.
The March of Dimes has a number of excellent products to educate and remind women about the signs and symptoms of preterm birth. Materials may be viewed and ordered by clicking here. Questions? Contact Anna Bess Brown at the March of Dimes at 919-781-2481 or at abrown@marchofdimes.com
The North Carolina Healthy Start Foundation also has educational information about preterm labor. Their materials may be accessed by clicking here. Questions? Call the NC Healthy Start Foundation at 919-828-1819.
The signs and symptoms of preterm labor are printed in the patient education sheets in English and Spanish.