What to Expect If You Go Into Labor Early

Going into labor before your 37th week of pregnancy, known as preterm labor, can be a concerning experience. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Here’s what you can expect if you go into labor early and how medical professionals will manage your care.

Immediate Steps Upon Early Labor

Hospital Visit: Once you inform your healthcare provider, you will likely be advised to go to the hospital for a thorough assessment.
Monitoring Contractions: At the hospital, your contractions will be closely monitored to determine the frequency and intensity.
Fetal Heartbeat Monitoring: Your baby’s heartbeat will be tracked to ensure they are not in distress.
Checking Membranes: The medical team will check if your membranes (water) have ruptured.
Infection Screening: Your urine will be tested for infections, and cervical and vaginal cultures may be taken to identify any potential infections.

Scenarios Based on Membrane Status

If Your Water Has Broken:

No Contractions: Your healthcare provider might decide to wait for labor to start naturally, induce labor, or attempt to delay it.
Antibiotics: You will receive antibiotics to prevent infections.
Transfer to Specialized Facility: If you are in a small town, you may be transferred to a larger hospital with advanced neonatal care services.

If Your Water Has Not Broken:

Cervical Examination: Your provider will examine your cervix to check for dilation and effacement.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound may be performed to assess your baby’s size, growth, position, and the amount of amniotic fluid.
Home Monitoring: If your cervix isn’t dilated or effaced, and your membranes are intact, you might be sent home to continue monitoring.

Also read: Understanding The Role Of A Postpartum Doula

Medical Interventions for Preterm Labor

Health Risks: If there’s a health risk to you or your baby, or if your membranes have ruptured, your healthcare provider might decide to proceed with delivery.
IV Antibiotics: You will likely receive intravenous antibiotics to prevent infections.
Steroids: Steroids may be administered to accelerate the development of your baby’s organs, including the lungs, brain, and intestines.
Tocolytics: Medications might be given to temporarily stop contractions and delay labor.
Cesarean Section: In many cases, especially if complications arise, a cesarean section might be the preferred method of delivery.

Outcomes for Premature Babies

The good news is that advancements in medical care have significantly improved the survival rates and health outcomes for premature babies. With the right medical intervention and care, many preterm infants go on to live healthy lives.

Conclusion

Preterm labor requires immediate attention and careful management to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby. Understanding what to expect and the potential interventions can help you feel more prepared if you face early labor. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

Also read: Postpartum Depression And Other Postpartum Challenges