Quick Facts on Premature Births

Risks and Signs

Are you concerned that you might be at risk for a preterm birth? Read on to learn about the risk factors, warning signs, and what you should do if you suspect you're going into labor prematurely:

Risk factors for preterm births

• Being an African American
• Pregnant with multiples
• Younger than 18 or older than 35
• Previous preterm birth
• Uterine or placental abnormalities
• Underweight or overweight
• Low weight gain during pregnancy
• Smoker
• Alcohol or drug user
• Short intervals between pregnancies
• One or more abortions
• Medical problems, such as hypertension or diabetes
• Untreated gum disease

Signs and symptoms of preterm labor

• Blood or other fluid leaking from your vagina (call your health-care provider right awaw if you have this symptom)
• Menstrual-like cramps, which may come and go
• Low, dull backache
• Pelvic pressure (may feel like the baby is pushing down)
• Change in vaginal discharge
• Abdominal cramps (with or without diarrhea)
• Uterine contractions (coming every ten minutes or more often)