Host:

If you're having any symptoms that aren't covered, please ask your provider about them. In fact, one excellent rule of thumb is that if you are concerned about anything during your pregnancy, ask your provider. Please don't ever feel foolish or embarrassed by any question you may have. The only silly question is the one you don't ask.

Next, let's review preterm labor.

Nurse:

As you may know, you're more likely to have your baby after your due date, rather than before. Still, one in ten babies in America is born "preterm", and so it's important that you understand the warning signs of premature delivery. You may also remember that preterm labor is when your labor starts before you are 37 weeks into your pregnancy.

Many women who go through preterm labor are not even aware that labor has started. They often mistake their preterm contractions for Braxton Hicks contractions, which are usually irregular and don't become more frequent or intense as time passes. Most often they go away when you lay down and rest.

Preterm labor contractions are different. They usually become regular enough that you or your partner can time them. You may have some spotting or even vaginal bleeding. Most women feel like their uterus is getting tight or "balling up", along with pelvic cramping or pain. Some women feel pressure in their pelvic area or vagina. Your "bag of water" may break. You also may have a lower backache. If you feel this kind of contraction or any of these symptoms, please contact your provider right away. These contractions may make your cervix dilate and cause your baby to be born early.