Remember that most women feel uterine contractions during their pregnancy. However, more than four contractions per hour, or contractions that are painful or intense, could indicate preterm labor. You should always call your provider immediately if you have any reason to suspect you might have preterm labor. Your doctor has the best chance of preventing a premature delivery the earlier your preterm labor is detected. Treatment for Preterm Labor Bedrest and lots of fluid are often the first treatment for preterm labor.
Intravenous fluids can stop contractions in some women.
Hospitalization may be necessary. If a preterm delivery is a possibility, your doctor may give you a medication that will help your baby's lungs mature. Management of preterm labor involves treating underlying causes, assessing maternal and fetal health and trying to delay delivery if it is in the best interest of mom and baby to do so. If the health of mom or baby is in imminent danger, sometimes allowing labor to continue is the only option. Preventing Preterm Labor Preterm labor cannot always be prevented, particularly if you have risk factors.