A normal pregnancy is about 40 weeks. Premature birth refers to the contractions that started before 37 weeks and the opening of the cervix.
Often the cause of preterm birth is not clear, but by taking good care of yourself, you can largely prevent premature birth and deliver a healthy baby.
Why Is Premature Birth a Concern? If preterm birth cannot be prevented, your baby may open his eyes to the world very early. And the earlier the birth, the greater the risks to the baby (low birth weight, underdeveloped organs, risk of infection, etc.). Premature children may have learning difficulties, developmental disorders and behavioral problems.
Who is at Risk of Premature Birth?
Premature birth can affect any pregnancy. General risk factors are as follows;
- Those with a history of preterm birth or those born with preterm birth themselves
- Multiple pregnancies
- Certain problems with the uterus, cervix or placenta
- Smoking and drinking alcohol
- Some infections related to amniotic fluid and lower genital tract
- Certain chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
- Being overweight or very thin before pregnancy. Gaining too little or too much weight during pregnancy
- Experiencing stressful events, such as experiencing violence or losing a loved one
- Multiple miscarriages
Despite these known risk factors, some women may experience preterm labor even if they have no risk factors.
What Should You Pay Attention To To Prevent Premature Birth?
There is no absolute guarantee, but there are some things that can be done;
- Have regular checkups: Your doctor monitors the health of you and your baby through regular prenatal checkups. Discuss any symptoms that worry you with your doctor.
- Eat healthy: You need more folic acid, calcium, iron, protein and other important nutrients during pregnancy. It is ideal to start a daily prenatal vitamin before pregnancy.
- Chronic conditions: Diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk of premature birth. Work with your doctor to keep such conditions under control.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations for activity: If you have signs or symptoms of preterm labor, your doctor may advise you to reduce your working hours and shorten your standing hours.
- Avoid risky substances: If you smoke, quit. Smoking triggers premature birth. Alcohol use and the use of certain drugs are also dangerous. You should consult your doctor about the use of medication.
- Consult your doctor about sexual intercourse: You can have sexual intercourse in healthy pregnancies, but you may not have to have sexual intercourse if there are vaginal bleeding or some complications related to the cervix - placenta.
- Cope with stress: Set reasonable limits and stick to them. Set aside some quiet time for yourself during a certain part of the day. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
- Take care of your teeth: Pay attention to the cleanliness of your teeth, do not delay your visits to the dentist. Some studies suggest that there is a relationship between preterm birth and gum disease.
If you have a history of preterm birth or are showing symptoms, your doctor may want you to take extra progesterone supplements.
What are the Symptoms of Premature Birth?
For some women these symptoms are false, for others they are certain. These;
- Contractions more than 8 times per hour
- Feeling of pelvic pressure
- Mild back pain
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Watery vaginal discharge
Can Premature Birth Be Prevented?
Drink plenty of water or fruit juice while you evaluate your contractions. If it is a false alarm, the fluids taken will suppress the contractions.
In other cases, lying on your left side to increase circulation to the uterus stops the contractions. Bed rest is sometimes recommended, but this is not a proven remedy for preventing premature birth and pregnancy complications.
If you're in the hospital, your doctor may use a uterine monitor to measure contractions. If your cervix is closed, an ultrasound may be used to evaluate the cervix. Medication may also be recommended to stop the contractions.
What if the contractions continue? Most women treated for preterm labor give birth normally or near normal. However, further preterm labor cannot be stopped or infection and other complications make preterm labor safer for mother and baby.
If you are between 23rd and 34th weeks, your doctor may recommend 2 treatments:
- A drug given orally or by injection temporarily stops labor.
- With an injection of strong steroids, the lung maturity of the baby is accelerated.
After the 34th week, steroids may not be needed as the baby's lungs are mature enough for delivery.
What Should I Expect During Birth? Preterm birth is similar to normal birth except that it starts very early. If relaxation and breathing techniques are not sufficient to control the pain, seek help. Your doctor will inform you about pain relief, epidural or other options.
Pediatricians will be on hand to assess the baby and meet his needs.
Early Postpartum Recovery and Future Pregnancies?
Premature birth does not affect your physical recovery after childbirth. However, your baby's condition will determine your general postpartum stresses. Premature babies usually stay in the postnatal intensive care unit, sometimes they need to stay in the hospital for a while. This process can be intense and stressful. Surround yourself with your loved ones, friends and family.
After a preterm birth, recurrent preterm births may occur.
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