Labor occurs when contractions are frequent or intense enough to cause cervical changes. The cervix is the opening to your uterus. Your cervix should stay closed until you approach your due date. This keeps your baby safely inside your uterus until it's mature enough to survive outside your womb. The early signs of labor can be subtle and hard to detect.
Many women are unaware of their uterus tightening.
It is very important that you call your provider immediately if you think you are experiencing any symptoms of labor and you are less than 37 weeks gestational age. Preterm labor can often be treated and a preterm delivery avoided if symptoms are detected in time, and steps are taken to stop labor from progressing. It is important to know if you are at higher risk for preterm labor as early detection can help prevent progression to preterm delivery in some cases. A cervical exam by your prenatal care provider is the only way to rule out or confirm preterm labor. Remember that most women feel uterine contractions during their pregnancy.