Preterm Labour: Causes And Symptoms

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17-07-24

Understanding Preterm Labour: Causes And Symptoms

Childbirth is a beautiful journey, but it can sometimes pose significant challenges, like preterm labour. Preterm labour occurs when labour starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to premature birth and associated health challenges for the baby.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 15 million babies are born preterm each year, which accounts for about 10% of all births globally. In India, the prevalence is even higher, with an estimated 3.5 million preterm births annually. This high rate underscores the importance of awareness and prevention strategies.

Symptoms of preterm labour include regular contractions, changes in vaginal discharge, pelvic pressure, low backache, and abdominal cramps. Causes include infections, inflammations, multiple pregnancies, stress, or issues with the uterus or cervix.

If you are expecting a baby or planning your pregnancy, you must know about preterm labour, its causes, and symptoms. This blog by the expert obstetrician and renowned gynaecologist in Jaipur, Dr Pankhuri Gautam, will assist you with the details.

Scroll down to get complete details!

What is Preterm Labour?

Preterm or premature labour is labour that begins early—before 37 weeks of pregnancy. A normal pregnancy period (foetal development) is about 40 weeks. A pregnancy is considered “at the term” at 37 weeks— and anything before 37 weeks is called preterm labour. Preterm labour may result in premature birth (being born early).

Causes of Preterm Labour

Many factors can contribute to preterm labour. Some are within your control, while others aren’t. Here is a comprehensive look at the causes of preterm labour:

Medical and Health Conditions

Chronic health conditions: Women with chronic health conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing preterm labour. These conditions can affect the placenta and overall pregnancy health.
Infections: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can increase the risk of preterm labour. These infections can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to early contractions.
Multiple pregnancies: Carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) can put extra strain on the uterus, increasing the likelihood of preterm labour. The uterus may become overstretched, triggering early contractions.
Medical conditions: Other conditions such as connective tissue disorders (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), blood clotting disorders, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) can also contribute to preterm labour.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Stress and psychological factors: Psychological well-being plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. High levels of stress and anxiety during pregnancy can contribute to preterm labour.
Physical strain: Pregnant women need to avoid excessive physical strain. Doing heavy lifting, standing for long periods, or exposure to harmful substances can increase the risk of preterm labour.
Smoking, alcohol, and substance abuse: Smoking, consuming alcohol, and using illicit drugs during pregnancy can harm the developing baby and increase the chances of preterm labour. These substances can affect the placenta and overall foetal development.
Poor diet: Consuming a poor diet, being underweight or overweight before pregnancy, and not gaining enough weight during pregnancy can also increase the risk.
Exposure to harmful substances: Being exposed to teratogens like chemicals, lead, radiation, or other harmful substances can contribute to preterm labour.

Pregnancy-Related Factors

Previous preterm birth: Women who have had a preterm birth in an earlier pregnancy are at a higher risk of experiencing it again. Close monitoring and preventive measures are crucial in such cases.
Short interval between pregnancies: A short interval (less than six months) between pregnancies can increase the risk of preterm labour. The body needs adequate time to recover from the previous pregnancy.
Issues with the uterus, cervix, or placenta: Structural abnormalities in the uterus or cervix, as well as complications with the placenta, can lead to preterm labour. These conditions require careful medical supervision.

Symptoms of Preterm Labour

Physical Symptoms

Regular or frequent contractions: Experiencing regular or frequent sensations of abdominal tightening (contractions) can be a sign of preterm labour.
Constant low, dull backache: Persistent lower back pain that doesn't go away can indicate preterm labour.
Pelvic pressure: Feeling pressure in the pelvis, as if the baby is pushing down, is another symptom of preterm labour.

Other Signs

Changes in vaginal discharge: An increase in vaginal discharge, especially if it becomes watery, mucus-like, or bloody, can be a warning sign of preterm labour.
Fluid leakage: A sudden gush or a steady trickle of fluid from the vagina can indicate that the amniotic sac has ruptured (water breaking).
Vaginal spotting or light bleeding: Any form of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Mild abdominal cramps: Persistent or intermittent abdominal cramps, similar to menstrual cramps, can be a sign of preterm labour.

Risk Factors for Preterm Labour

Preterm labour can affect any pregnant woman, but certain factors increase the risk significantly. Understanding these risk factors helps take preventive measures and seek early medical intervention.

Genetic Factors

A family history of preterm labour or preterm birth increases risk.
Certain genetic markers may predispose women to preterm labour.

Socioeconomic Factors

Limited access to quality healthcare, poor nutrition, and high stress levels can contribute to preterm labour.
Lack of regular prenatal visits increases the risk of complications, including preterm labour.

Age factors

Women younger than 17 or older than 35 have a higher risk of preterm labour.
Black women are at a higher risk compared to women of other races.

Other common risk factors are pregnancy-related lifestyle and medical conditions. Being aware of these high-risk factors allows expectant mothers to work closely with healthcare providers to monitor and manage their pregnancies effectively, reducing the likelihood of preterm labour.

What to Do if You Suspect Preterm Labour?

Contact Your Doctor

If you experience any symptoms of preterm labour, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Instant medical attention can help manage the situation effectively and improve outcomes.

Steps to Take While Waiting for Medical Help

While waiting for medical assistance, try to remain calm to avoid increasing stress. Lie down on your left side to improve blood flow to the baby and drink water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can sometimes trigger contractions.

Emergency Measures

Keep track of contractions and other symptoms to provide accurate information to your healthcare provider. Avoid strenuous activities until you receive medical advice. If advised to go to the hospital, prepare essential items and plan transportation.

Conclusion

Maintaining awareness about preterm labour is crucial for expectant mothers. Understanding its causes and symptoms can significantly impact the management and outcomes of preterm births. If you notice any signs of preterm labour, seeking immediate medical advice is essential.

As an experienced gynaecologist, I, Dr Pankhuri Gautam, am dedicated to offering expert advice and personalised care. Our team provides comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for your pregnancy.