Causes of Premature Labour

In some cases there is no real explanation for delivering prematurely; however, there are many factors that contribute to the onset of premature labour. These factors include the following circumstances:

• Mother of multiples such as twins or triplets may have more chance of delivering prematurely
• If you have had a previous premature baby
• An underage pregnancy could result in premature birth due to little or no support
• A mother’s social circumstances such as age and job can contribute to premature birth
• Smoking
• Drugs
• Being underweight
• Bacterial Infection in your vagina
• An abnormality of uterus
• Waters breaking early
• Cervical weakness

All these factors can contribute to having a premature birth. It is therefore important to look after your body to reduce the risk of having a premature labour.

It is important to act quickly if you experience any of the early signs of premature labour; in some cases, treatment can be provided and this can reduce the risk of the baby being born prematurely. Common symptoms to look out for include:

• Bleeding from the vagina (especially bright red blood)
• Contractions, which usually come regularly and can come up to five times an hour
• A sudden surge of clear fluid from the vagina
• Pain during urination
• Persistent, dull aching in the lower back

If you do notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Possible complications in childbirth:

• Possible complications in childbirth
• Premature Labour
• Causes of Premature Labour
• What Should I do if I go into Premature Labour?
• What will happen at the hospital if I am giving birth prematurely?
• What happens after my baby is born?

• Where can I find Support for Premature babies?
• Problems with the umbilical cord
• Foetal distress
• Problems with the placenta
• Postpartum haemorrhage
• The Neonatal Unit