# What is preterm labor and what are its most prominent signs? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-almakhad-almubakir-wa-ma-heya-abraz-alamataho Language: en Category: pregnancy Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.868Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.868Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-howa-almakhad-almubakir-wa-ma-heya-abraz-alamataho Preterm labor is the onset of the birth process before the 37th week of pregnancy [\[1\]](). Preterm birth is one of the leading causes of infant disability or death [\[1\]](). The earlier a baby is born, the greater the likelihood of facing serious health problems, which may require immediate and ongoing medical care [\[2\]](). Despite medical advancements that have helped some premature infants survive, the chances of them surviving without disability remain low, especially before the 28th week of pregnancy [\[2\]](). ## Signs of preterm labor requiring attention It is essential for a pregnant woman to be aware of the signs of preterm labor to seek medical help in a timely manner. You must contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any of these signs before the 37th week of pregnancy [\[1\]](): - Uterine contractions occurring every 10 minutes or more frequently [\[3\]](). - A feeling of pressure in the pelvic area [\[3\]](). - Mild, persistent pain in the lower back [\[3\]](). - Cramps similar to menstrual cramps in the abdomen [\[3\]](). - Fluid or blood leakage from the vagina [\[3\]](). - A sudden increase in vaginal discharge [\[1\]](). - Thick, mucus-like vaginal discharge containing blood [\[1\]](). - Feeling that your water has broken (rupture of membranes) [\[1\]](). - Contractions that increase in duration, intensity, and frequency [\[1\]](). ## The importance of immediate medical care If you suspect preterm labor, seeking immediate medical care is the most important step [\[1\]](). A healthcare provider can perform an examination to determine if premature labor has begun by checking the cervix to see if it has shortened or dilated, or if the membranes have ruptured [\[1\]](). The examination may also include a transvaginal ultrasound to assess cervical length and monitor contractions [\[1\]](). ## What happens when preterm labor is diagnosed? If preterm labor is diagnosed, you may need to be hospitalized [\[1\]](). You may be given medications to stop contractions and help mature the fetus's lungs [\[1\]](). These medications may include corticosteroids to help mature the baby's lungs and other organs, magnesium sulfate to reduce the risk of cerebral palsy, and antibiotics to prevent infection [\[2\]](). Early treatment is the best way to prevent preterm birth [\[1\]](). ## Preventing preterm labor Although the primary cause of preterm labor cannot always be determined, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks [\[1\]](). These steps include regular prenatal care, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs, engaging in moderate physical activity, and getting enough sleep (8-10 hours daily) [\[1\]](). It is also recommended to treat any vaginal infections and maintain good dental and gum health [\[1\]](). For more information on this topic, you can visit [Preterm Labor: Warning Signs, Causes, and Prevention Methods (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Preterm labor]() - [Preterm Labor]() - [Extremely Preterm Birth]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-almakhad-almubakir-wa-ma-heya-abraz-alamataho#answer