7 Signs Indicating Preterm Birth

Today, 10% of all births result in preterm birth. Starting life earlier than expected is still the most common and most important cause of infant loss. Premature birth is responsible for 75% of newborn deaths.

The heartwarming news is that thanks to the early detection of birth signs, it is possible to delay the birth and ensure the development of all organs of the baby, especially the lung, except in emergencies. The treatment to prevent preterm birth starts with preterm birth risk analysis of expectant mothers before pregnancy.

Thanks to tests and examinations, the risk of preterm birth in expectant mothers can be determined. In most cases, the time required for the treatment to be applied in order to prevent premature birth and ensure the healthy development of the baby cannot be found. The reason for this is that expectant mothers apply to the doctor late. Therefore, it is extremely important for expectant mothers to know the symptoms of preterm labor and to apply to a doctor without wasting time if this occurs.

Stomach ache

Mild abdominal pain, which cannot be understood and cannot be attributed to any reason, can sometimes be the first sign of premature birth. It is necessary to consult a specialist doctor without wasting time, especially if abdominal pain comes and goes, that is, intermittently and causes mild discomfort.

Increase in vaginal discharge

Pregnancy is a process that naturally increases vaginal discharge. This change is caused by increased hormones in the body due to pregnancy. However, a discharge that is more than normal, for example more than one daily pad per day, may indicate premature birth.

Having a bloody and slimy discharge

Pink, colored and slimy contamination can be seen in underwear, especially in the evening, while at the sink or after sudden standing up. Since this discharge from the part called the cervix may be a harbinger of premature birth, it is necessary not to waste time again.

Clear liquid coming

Perhaps one of the most dangerous and sure signs of preterm labor is the excessive discharge of clear fluid from the vagina. This picture requires referral to a specialist doctor in a much shorter time than other complaints. Because the pregnancy sac has opened and the baby’s fluid may be flowing out. In case of delay, infection may develop at a level that can endanger the life of the mother and baby.

Pressure and Feeling of Fullness

Uterine contractions that occur before the onset of preterm labor push the baby’s head forward into the birth canal. Directing the baby’s head with pressure to the lower part of the uterus creates a meaningless feeling of pressure and fullness in the vaginal area. Again, in this symptom, it is of great importance to consult a doctor without wasting time in preventing premature birth.

These Factors Increase the Risk of Preterm Birth!

In the presence of the following conditions, there is a high risk of premature birth in a pregnancy that develops without precaution and treatment. It is extremely important for expectant mothers with these risk factors to consult a specialist doctor before pregnancy in order to prevent premature birth.

• Having a premature birth in a previous pregnancy
• Measuring the cervix shorter than normal
• Having anemia
• Being underweight and not getting enough nutrition
• Smoking
• Being young (< 18 years old)
• Short interval between pregnancies (less than 1 year)