Risk Factors for Preterm Labor
There are various risk factors that might make you more likely to experience preterm labor. It is important to be aware of these so that you can take steps to avoid it.
Structural issues
Some women have abnormalities with their uterus or cervix that can cause preterm labor. If any of these are discovered, then you will want to watch carefully.
Placental problems
Placental abruption or other issues with the placenta can cause preterm labor to occur. They will often check for these problems when they do your sonogram.
Infections
Certain infections may start preterm labor. It is extremely important to treat any infections immediately. Some infections can also get much worse when you are pregnant, and you may be more likely to get some infections when you are expecting.
Larger uterus
When a woman’s uterus is larger, then she may be more likely to go into preterm labor. For instance, if you are carrying multiples such as twins, triplets or more, then you may go into labor sooner.
Have had a preterm labor before
If you have had a preterm birth in the past, then you may be more likely to do so again. The same factors that caused it the first time may be at play again, even if you are not sure exactly what they are. It is important to know that you can go into preterm labor even if you have had full term births in the past.
Other factors
There have been a variety of other factors associated with preterm labor. Certain conditions such as diabetes or irritable bowel syndrome may play a part. Having a trauma to your stomach could possibly precipitate this. Even maternal stress could possibly have something to do with it. It is also important not to get dehydrated and work out too hard because this may be linked. Alcohol or drug use may also have a role in preterm labor.
You may go into preterm labor with or without the above factors. If you have a combination of several then you may want to be especially diligent. Preterm labor feels different for everyone, and if you think that there is any chance that you may be experiencing it, you will want to call your doctor immediately. There are often things that can be done if you get treatment quick enough. They may prescribe medication or other courses of treatment.