What are the symptoms of premature birth?

Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
Updated on April 12, 2025
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Premature birth refers to delivery occurring between 28 and 36+6 weeks of pregnancy. The symptoms of premature birth primarily include the following aspects: First, regular uterine contractions occur. These contractions can lead to the descent of the fetal head and exert pressure on the cervix, which is necessary for the delivery of the fetus. It generally manifests as pain every three to five minutes, with each episode of pain lasting more than one minute, and both the frequency and intensity of the pain gradually increasing. Second, the appearance of "bloody show" occurs. As the fetus descends, it can cause the rupture of capillaries at the edge of the membranes, leading to bloody show. Third, there is a noticeable feeling of heaviness or pressure. Gynecological examinations can reveal dilation of the cervix and shortening of the cervical canal. When these symptoms appear, an assessment for premature birth should be conducted, and preparations for premature delivery should be made.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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How to switch from preterm formula to regular formula?

Generally, in the early stages of preterm infants, it is still necessary to feed them promptly with preterm formula. Since the gastrointestinal function of preterm infants is relatively weak, they may not be able to digest and absorb some full-term formula, which can easily increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. If the baby's development is currently good, you can switch to ordinary formula. During the transition between two formula brands, there should first be a gradual shift; you can start by mixing the two formulas, using more preterm formula and less ordinary formula. Gradually switch to the new ordinary formula brand, reducing the amount of preterm formula, allowing the baby to adapt gradually.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Premature birth is what it means.

Preterm birth refers to giving birth before full-term pregnancy, defined as delivery occurring between 28 and 36 weeks plus 6 days of gestation. Corresponding conditions are miscarriage and full-term delivery: before 28 weeks is termed a miscarriage, while delivery after 37 weeks is termed full-term birth. Because preterm infants already possess certain vital functions, most can survive with appropriate emergency intervention and treatment. However, the risks associated with preterm birth are relatively high and depend on the specific causes of prematurity. Some premature births are due to premature rupture of membranes, while others are medically induced, for example in cases of abruptio placentae or severe preeclampsia. Therefore, it is crucial in clinical practice to provide rational treatment for preterm labor, aiming to extend the duration of pregnancy as much as possible to avoid neonatal death.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does low amniotic fluid lead to preterm birth?

When there is too little amniotic fluid, it can potentially cause preterm labor. Insufficient amniotic fluid can lead to fetal hypoxia and asphyxia within the uterine cavity, and frequent fetal movements may induce uterine contractions leading to preterm labor. If reduced amniotic fluid is detected during an examination, it is important to promptly identify the cause and actively pursue treatment. Initially, drinking more water can help improve the condition, and water can also be directly injected into the amniotic cavity to improve the situation. If an examination reveals frequent fetal movements or a reduced fetal heart rate, indicating hypoxia, prompt intervention is needed, and if necessary, pregnancy termination may be considered.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Can premature birth be natural birth?

First, let's discuss the concept of preterm birth, which is defined as births occurring between less than 37 weeks and more than 28 weeks of gestation. There are many reasons for preterm birth, such as genetic factors, premature rupture of membranes, or complications during pregnancy. If the pelvic size is adequate and the child can tolerate delivery, then vaginal delivery is preferred; however, if the fetus is too small or there are complications during pregnancy such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, or if the mother's health status is not good, it is recommended to opt for a cesarean section to ensure a timely delivery.

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Written by Liu Wen Li
Obstetrics
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How is preterm birth defined?

Premature birth means that the gestational period is not yet complete, and the baby is born before reaching full term, which is called preterm birth. Specifically, this ranges from more than 28 weeks but less than 37 weeks of gestation. Due to the incomplete development of premature infants, their organ functions are relatively poor. Therefore, caring for premature infants can be more challenging, often requiring pediatric care and enhanced nursing. Moreover, there are more complications, so it is important to try to prevent premature births as much as possible.