What will happen at the hospital if I am giving birth prematurely?

If the labour has started early some mothers may find that the labour stops on its own. However, if the labour is already underway there is little that can be done to stop it.

Fetal fibronectin is the procedure where your waters will be tested to check for protein and this can give you an indication whether your baby is coming soon. Your baby’s heartbeat will be monitored and pain relief options may be discussed. Many midwives advise against taking pethidine due to its affects on your baby’s breathing. The most common form of pain relief in a premature labour is an epidural.

If you are less than 34 weeks you may be given steroid injections which help to delay the birth for a short time. Your baby is more likely to be in a better condition if he or she is born at 34 weeks in comparison to premature babies born under this gestational time period. In some cases a Caesarean section may be needed if you have heavy bleeding or other complications.

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