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Preterm Labor and Birth

The Basics | Symptoms | Detection & Treatment | Prevention

What Are the Symptoms of Preterm Labor and Birth?

The symptoms of preterm labor and delivery include:

  • Contractions (tightening and hardening of the uterus), occurring more than four per hour (may be painless).
  • Low cramps, similar to menstrual cramps.
  • Low backache.
  • A feeling of pelvic pressure.
  • Abdominal cramps, gas or diarrhea.
  • A change in quality or quantity of vaginal discharge, especially any gush or leak of fluid.

Call Your Doctor If:

If you notice or feel any of the above symptoms, call your doctor.

Medically reviewed by Tracy Shuman, MD, August 2005.

SOURCES: The Mayo Clinic. Sidelines National Support Network. Robin Elise Weiss, BA, LCCE, ICCE-CPE, CD(DONA), CLC, Lamaze International Birth Networks Committee, the Boards of Directors for the BirthCare Network, President of the Louisville Mothers of Twins Club.

The Basics | Symptoms | Detection & Treatment | Prevention
© 2005 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.
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