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Threatened Preterm Labor

Regular uterine activity with cervical change before 37 weeks that may lead to premature delivery without intervention.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Threatened Preterm Labor?

Preterm labor is defined as regular uterine contractions associated with cervical change between 20 and 37 weeks, affecting approximately 10% of pregnancies worldwide and representing a leading cause of neonatal morbidity.

Contributing pathways include infection, inflammation, uterine overdistension, placental ischemia, and cervical insufficiency, often in combination.

Assessment relies on contraction pattern, digital and transvaginal cervical length measurement, and fetal fibronectin testing when available, in line with NICE and SMFM guidance.

Management focuses on prolonging pregnancy long enough to administer corticosteroids, transfer to appropriate care, and enable neuroprotection when needed.

Symptoms

Regular, painful uterine contractions at least every 10 minutes
Low backache or pelvic pressure before 37 weeks
Menstrual-like cramps or abdominal tightening
Increased or blood-tinged vaginal discharge or loss of mucus plug
Vaginal bleeding or watery fluid leakage
Feeling that the baby is pushing down

Risk Factors

Previous preterm delivery or late miscarriage
Short cervical length on transvaginal ultrasound
Multiple gestation, polyhydramnios, or uterine anomaly
Infection: bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infection, chorioamnionitis
Smoking, substance use, short interpregnancy interval
Maternal chronic disease, low or very high body mass index, stressful life events

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Regular contractions, pelvic pressure, or lower-back pain before 37 weeks
  • Any vaginal bleeding, watery fluid leakage, or change in fetal movements
  • Fever or painful urination in the second or third trimester

Treatment Methods

01
Hospital assessment with cardiotocography, cervical ultrasound, and evaluation for chorioamnionitis and rupture of membranes
02
Antenatal corticosteroids between 24 and 34 weeks to accelerate fetal lung maturity
03
Tocolysis with nifedipine, atosiban, or indomethacin for up to 48 hours to allow steroids and maternal transfer
04
Magnesium sulphate neuroprotection for fetuses below 32 weeks when delivery is anticipated
05
Antibiotics when group B streptococcus prophylaxis is indicated or infection is suspected
06
Vaginal progesterone or cervical cerclage in selected high-risk pregnancies and planned delivery in a unit with adequate neonatal care

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.