The longer a baby can be kept in the uterus prior to 37 weeks of your pregnancy the better. Dennis Worthington, MD Labor occurring between 21 and 36 weeks of gestation is called premature labor.
Contractions cause the cervix to open before the baby has had enough time to develop.
Babies born before 37 weeks may have problems breathing, eating and keeping warm. While any pregnant woman can experience premature labor, recognized risk factors include being a smoker, having a low-lying placenta, being younger than 17 or older than 35 and carrying more than one baby. Prior premature labor is the most significant risk factor. Because it's critical to catch premature labor early and postpone birth, it is very important for all pregnant women to recognize the warning signs of premature labor. Pelvic pressure that feels like the baby is pushing down.