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Preterm birth has become a global health challenge, with India seeing the highest number of cases. It accounts for 23.4% (3.5 million cases) of all preterm births worldwide1. Premature birth is also the leading cause of child deaths below five years and can lead to disability, non-communicable diseases, developmental delays, and life-long health consequences. This blog will explore the signs and symptoms of preterm labour, its associated risks, and how lifestyle modifications can help minimise the risk of premature delivery.
Synopsis
Understanding Premature Birth
A birth occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy is termed a premature birth, and the infant is referred to as a premature baby. The full term of pregnancy is 40 weeks, and an early delivery poses various health challenges for the baby. The earlier the delivery, the greater the risk of health complications, as the premature baby requires specialised care and treatment at the NICU, increasing the financial burden on the family. Fortunately, certain treatments and making specific lifestyle changes help minimise the risk of preterm labour and support a healthier pregnancy.
Preterm Labour Signs and Symptoms
Knowing and recognising the early signs and symptoms of premature preterm labor is crucial for seeking timely medical intervention and avoiding its associated risks. This includes:
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Regular or frequent contractions
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Constant lower back pain or pressure
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Lower abdominal or pelvic pressure
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Light bleeding or vaginal spotting
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Mild abdominal cramps (with or without diarrhoea)
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Change in vaginal discharge (watery, bloody, or mucus)
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Preterm rupture of membranes
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Persistent menstrual-like cramps
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Leaking of fluid from the vagina (amniotic fluid)
If you experience any of these preterm labor symptoms before 37 weeks, seek immediate help from your gynaecologist.
How Lifestyle Changes Can Minimise the Risk of Premature Birth
Preterm births can be significantly reduced if a woman takes good care of her health during this time. Here are some healthy lifestyle changes that can substantially reduce the risk of premature birth:
1. Eating a well-balanced diet
Taking essential nutrients is crucial for supporting foetal development and overall maternal health during pregnancy. Eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, healthy fats, and whole grains for the proper growth of the foetus. The most essential nutrients during pregnancy are folic acid, iron, calcium, and proteins, which can also reduce the risk of disability in the foetus. These nutrients can be taken through foods or in the form of supplements. Follow your doctor’s advice or seek help from a dietician to get personalised diets for your pregnancy. Eat more leafy green vegetables, nuts, beans, lean meats, eggs, dairy products, and fortified cereals. Also, keep yourself well-hydrated, as water is essential to maintaining amniotic fluid levels and your overall health.
2. Eliminate harmful foods and habits
Avoiding harmful foods, substances, and habits is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Smoking can lead to premature birth, so quit smoking completely during pregnancy and also protect yourself from second-hand smoke, as it can be dangerous for your baby. Avoid consumption of alcohol and narcotic drugs, as they can severely impact foetal development, increasing the risk of preterm labour. Limit the consumption of caffeine and caffeinated drinks, as high caffeine intake is associated with preterm birth.
3. Stress management
Taking stress during pregnancy is very harmful to the baby and can lead to various complications. So, managing stress effectively can help reduce the risk of preterm labour. Indulge in relaxation exercises such as meditation, yoga, stretching, and deep breathing exercises to manage your stress. Take adequate rest and get quality sleep to support your overall well-being. Stay happy. As the old saying goes, if a mother stays happy during pregnancy, she will give birth to a happy baby. Get emotional support by engaging with your family, friends, and other mother’s support groups during this time.
4. Maintain healthy weight gain
For a healthy pregnancy and foetal growth, gaining a healthy weight during the pregnancy term is essential, as it also reduces the risk of preterm birth. It supports foetal development and is an indicator of the growing foetus. Thus, consult with your gynaecologist to determine the appropriate weight gain based on your individual health needs.
5. Regular prenatal checkups
Regular prenatal check-ups and screenings are vital to ensure early detection and management of potential complications during pregnancy. During your prenatal care checkups, the doctor will monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels, screen for infections, track foetal growth and development, provide dietary and exercise guidance, and prescribe essential medications and supplements for a healthy pregnancy. Doctors may recommend routine screening tests to monitor fetal growth and detect any other potential complications to ensure the delivery of a healthy baby.
Consult our gynaecology hospital in Broadway Kolkata if you to know more about preterm birth.
Conclusion
Premature birth is a serious concern with potential long-term health impacts for the newborn. However, by recognising the signs of preterm labour, expectant mothers can take proactive steps to reduce their risk by taking the appropriate preterm labour treatment. Implementing lifestyle changes and attending regular prenatal checkups can significantly contribute to a healthier pregnancy and reduce the likelihood of premature birth. Get personalised advice and efficient treatment from experienced gynaecologists at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, and increase your chances of a full-term and healthy baby.
FAQ's
Several factors can lead to preterm labour, causing preterm birth. These are:
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Medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, and infections)
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Previous history of preterm labour or preterm birth
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Shortened cervix
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Uterus or placenta issues
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High amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios)
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Stressful life events
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Multiple pregnancies
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Lifestyle factors (stress, alcohol consumption, smoking, poor nutrition, lack of prenatal care)
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Age of the mother (too young or old)
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Vaginal bleeding
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Inadequate weight gain
If you are at higher risk of preterm labour, seek consultation from a specialist to look for ways to reduce this risk.
All premature babies do not have complications, but they are more at risk of developing them. The risk of complications is higher in babies born more early in pregnancy. These include:
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Breathing and other respiratory issues
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Cardiac issues (patent ductus arteriosus, low blood pressure, etc)
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Brain problems (intraventricular haemorrhage, cerebral palsy, developmental delays)
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Temperature regulation issues (hypothermia)
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Digestion issues (feeding issues, gastrointestinal complications, necrotising enterocolitis)
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Impaired vision and hearing
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Blood problems (anaemia and newborn jaundice)
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Metabolism issues
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Weak immune system (prone to infections)
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Behaviour issues
In addition, there can be many long-term complications, and these children are more susceptible to developing chronic health issues during adulthood
Preterm labour can be prevented before you go into labour, with some treatments and interventions available to reduce the risks of preterm birth.
Preterm labour treatment options include:
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Progesterone supplements
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Cerclage (cervix is stitched)
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Antibiotics
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Lifestyle modifications
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Pessary (silicone device)
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Tocolytic medications
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Corticosteroids
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Bed rest
Every pregnancy is different, so consult with your gynaecologist for the right treatment for your pregnancy.
In case you are having contractions, the doctor will analyse the changes in the cervix by doing a pelvic exam. The contractions will be monitored, and a physical examination will be done again in a few hours to see the progress.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our Gynaecology Department or visit our website.
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