What are the signs of premature birth?

Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

Updated on February 21, 2025

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Preterm birth refers to delivery occurring between the 28th and 36th week +6 days of pregnancy. Firstly, it is advised to prioritize prevention and identify the symptoms of preterm labor as early as possible to allow for early treatment. Signs of preterm labor include the following aspects: First, the occurrence of regular contractions, such as 4 contractions within 20 minutes or 8 contractions within 60 minutes, with each contraction lasting more than a minute; second, the appearance of a small amount of bloody show, which is a sign of imminent labor; third, many times pregnant women will experience a significant feeling of heaviness. Upon examination, cervical dilation and a shortening of the cervical canal may be found. When these symptoms appear, it is important to rest in bed promptly and undergo treatment with medications.

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Written by Zhao Li Li

Obstetrics

51sec

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What does it feel like when the cervix opens prematurely?

Under normal circumstances, if preterm labor is already confirmed and the cervix is fully dilated, it is generally considered inevitable and preparations for the active resuscitation of the newborn should be made. Typically, if the cervix is fully dilated due to preterm labor, regular abdominal pain may first occur along with discomfort in the lower abdomen, indicating strong uterine contractions. After the uterus contracts, this leads to continuous dilation of the cervix until it expands to ten centimeters. Once fully dilated, the next steps in treatment are carried out, closely monitoring the condition of the premature infant after birth and providing symptomatic medication if necessary.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

1min 2sec

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Premature birth is how many weeks?

Premature birth refers to childbirth occurring before full-term pregnancy. In contrast, the terms miscarriage, full-term birth, and post-term birth are used, differentiated mainly by the gestational weeks. Miscarriage refers to the expulsion of a fetus before 28 weeks of pregnancy, premature birth refers to expulsion between 28 and 36 weeks plus 6 days, full-term birth refers to expulsion between 37 and 41 weeks plus 6 days, and post-term birth refers to expulsion after 42 weeks of pregnancy. The definition of premature birth being set between 28 and 36 weeks plus 6 days mainly stems from the fact that during this time period, the fetus already has a significant chance of survival. However, the overall survival rate is lower than that of a full-term birth. It is crucial to promptly treat the newborn in cases of premature birth, while also preventing complications in the mother.

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Written by Liu Wen Li

Obstetrics

40sec

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Are the twins premature?

The likelihood of premature birth is higher in twins than in singletons, but this does not mean that all twins will be born prematurely. In the case of twins, there are two children in the uterus. Generally, the combined weight of two children is more than that of one. Additionally, there might be more amniotic fluid and a larger placental area. Therefore, the contents of the uterus occupy more volume, and when the uterus is stretched to a certain extent, its sensitivity increases. As a result, some may experience contractions and give birth prematurely before reaching 37 weeks of pregnancy.

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Written by Zhao Li Li

Obstetrics

51sec

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What are the symptoms of preterm labor?

According to the current situation, generally, embryos delivered between 28 to 37 weeks of cessation of menstruation are considered preterm. Under normal circumstances, if there is already regular abdominal pain accompanied by abdominal bloating and uterine contractions, it is generally considered whether there is a possibility of threatened miscarriage. Normally, frequent uterine contractions and abdominal hardening can stimulate cervical dilation, which generally may lead to preterm birth. Therefore, these are the signs of preterm labor. If regular abdominal pain occurs and persists for several hours without relief, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for treatment to prevent premature birth.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

1min 3sec

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Will early engagement of the fetus lead to premature birth?

Fetal engagement refers to the leading part of the fetus having entered into the woman's pelvis. There isn't a necessary correlation between fetal engagement and preterm birth; however, fetal engagement could indicate a possibility of preterm birth or an upcoming labor. It is important to pay attention to the timing of fetal engagement and the expectant mother's sensations post-engagement. Firstly, for the vast majority of pregnant women, fetal engagement should occur after week 32 or 34. Early engagement should prompt attention to the presence of other clinical symptoms. Secondly, be mindful if there are feelings of descent or abdominal pain after the fetal engagement. Regular checks of the cervical canal length should be conducted if these sensations frequently occur. If the cervical canal is progressively shortening, it may suggest a risk of preterm birth. If there is no shortening of the cervical canal, it means that the fetal engagement and these clinical symptoms are unlikely to cause preterm birth.