Preterm Labour

Preterm labour is labour that begins before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labour. Babies born preterm are at a higher risk for a number of health issues and steps can be taken to delay or stop labour. If you are currently experiencing signs and symptoms of preterm labour, contact your health care provider with this urgent concern or go to the hospital for an assessment.

Check out the links below to learn more about taking steps to reduce your chance of giving birth preterm, the signs of preterm labour, the health risks associated with preterm birth, treatment options in case of preterm labour, and caring for a preterm baby.

• Best Start by Health Nexus - Preterm labour: Signs, symptoms, what it means for you and your baby
• The MotHERS Program - Placental abruption: signs and risk factors
• The MotHERS Program - Preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes (PPROM)
• HealthyFamiliesBC - Reducing your risk of preterm labour and caring for preterm babies
• Pregnancy Info - Preterm Labour
• My Health Alberta - Pregnancy: Signs of Preterm Labor
• March of Dimes - Signs and symptoms of preterm labor infographic
• March of Dimes - Progesterone treatment to help prevent premature birth