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What is Preterm labor & Why Might it Occur?

What is preterm labor?

It’s when you go into labor after week 20. Before that time frame, it’s considered a miscarriage. Doctors like to keep an eye on you if you’ve had previous preterm labors in the past, and they may even ask you to get a weekly shot of Makena after 19 weeks up until 36 weeks. I get the Makena injection weekly in home, unless it’s a week of my midwife appointment at the office, then I just take the injection box with me to her office, and a nurse does it while I’m already there.


What can cause preterm labor?

No one can be 100% certain on what exactly is the cause of preterm labor, but there are a few different factors that can play a role in contractions and early dilation of your cervix.


What may cause preterm labor?

– Smoking, alcohol, and drug use 

– Short intervals between pregnancies

– Carrying multiples

– Maternal age

– Uterine and vaginal infections

– Pregnancy complications

– Structural anomalities of the uterus and/or cervix

– Gum infections

– Stress levels

– Occupational factors

– Previous preterm birth


How can you prevent preterm labor?

– Aim for 18 months between pregnancies

– Control what you can – smoking, drinking, illegal drugs – stop these

– See your doctor for earlier prenatal care

– Take prenatal vitamins

– Watch your weight

– Eat healthy

– Eat often

– Keep yourself hydrated

– Go when you gotta go to the bathroom

– Brush your teeth regularly

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