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Preterm labor

Also called: Preterm labor, premature labor, early contractions

Labor that starts before 37 weeks. Signs include regular contractions, low back ache, pelvic pressure, or fluid leaking. Call your care team right away.

Before37 weeks
CallYour care team or go to labor and delivery
TreatmentMedicines to delay labor, steroids for baby's lungs

Overview

Preterm labor is labor that starts before 37 weeks. Signs can be subtle, like a low backache or pelvic pressure.

Steroid shots given to the mother help the baby's lungs, and some medicines can delay labor for a short time.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Contractions before 37 weeks
  • Period cramps

Less common

  • Back ache
  • Pelvic pressure
  • Fluid leaking

When to get medical care

Call 911Heavy bleeding, fluid gushing, or regular contractions.
Get care todayAny signs of labor before 37 weeks.
See a doctor soonQuestions about preterm risk.

Causes

Many causes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Past preterm birth
  • Twins

Diagnosis

Your team checks you.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Cervix check:
  • Monitor:

Treatment

Get checked fast.

Self-care

  • Time contractions
  • Drink water
  • Lie on your left side and drink water while you call
  • Empty your bladder

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Prenatal care
  • Don't smoke
  • Treat infections

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Past preterm birth: Ask about progesterone.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Care can help.

Fast care helps babies born early do well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Am I at risk for preterm birth?
  • Would progesterone help me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Preterm labor

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.