What Are the Signs of Premature Labor?
It is important for you to learn the signs of premature labor so that you can recognize them and get help to stop it and prevent your baby from being born too early. Premature labor is usually not painful, but there are several warning signs, including: • Contractions or tightening of the muscles in the uterus every ten minutes or more. • Regular tightening or low, dull pain in your back that either comes or goes or is constant (but is not relieved by changing positions or other comfort measures). • Lower abdominal cramping that may feel like gas pain (with or without diarrhea). • Increased pressure in the pelvis or vagina. • Menstrual-like cramps. • Increased vaginal discharge. • Leaking of fluid from the vagina. • Vaginal bleeding. • Flu-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. • Decreased fetal movements (the baby does not kick as often as it usually does).
