Therefore, doctors sometimes make the diagnosis of premature labor when cervical changes are minor or just beginning. Early treatment is more effective than later treatment after labor has advanced. Preterm delivery causes more death and illness in the newborn period than anything else except birth defects. 1 Spontaneous preterm labor causes a large percentage of these preterm deliveries. The risk of preterm delivery varies considerably.
Some women have several times the risk of others.
Some risk factors can be controlled such as alcohol and illicit drug use. Others, such as age, multiple gestation and uterine abnormalities cannot be controlled . However, all women can be instructed to watch for the signs of preterm labor and avoid activities that can lead to preterm labor. This discussion should be used to help you understand the issues so that you can discuss your concerns with your doctor. This material is no substitute for a discussion with your physician or nurse practitioner.