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If you’ve had a preterm birth before or you’ve been told you're at higher risk, it’s natural to feel worried. But don’t lose hope. Many people with risk factors still go on to have healthy, full-term pregnancies. Below are some simple tips that may help prevent preterm labour.
1. Attend Regular Antenatal Care
Going to all your antenatal appointments is one of the most important things you can do. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your health and your baby’s growth, spotting any issues early. At your first booking appointment, your doctor will assess any risks based on your pregnancy history. Regular check-ups include ultrasound scans, blood tests, and checks for complications like preeclampsia or infections.2. Stay Physically Active
Being active during pregnancy can lower your risk of preterm labour and bring other benefits like better mood, improved sleep, and reduced chances of gestational diabetes. However, any form of exercise should be done strictly as advised by your treating doctor. Always check with your doctor before starting or continuing any routine.3. Manage Your Mental Health
Stress during pregnancy might increase the risk of preterm labour, so finding ways to reduce it is important. Some stress is normal, but try to limit it where possible. Talk to your doctor if you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with mental health. They can connect you with support to help you feel more at ease. Being open about your feelings allows your care team to provide the right help to keep you and your baby healthy.4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Your weight before and during pregnancy matters. Being underweight can raise the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. On the other hand, being overweight may lead to complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, which can result in a planned preterm birth. Work with your doctor to achieve a healthy weight through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole-wheat carbs. If discussing weight feels uncomfortable, let your doctor know so they can support you sensitively.5. Avoid Harmful Substances
Certain lifestyle choices can increase the risk of preterm labour, so avoiding them is crucial:- Smoking: Smoking raises the risk of preterm birth, and the more you smoke, the higher the risk. Quitting as soon as possible protects your baby and improves their chances of a healthy start
- Alcohol: Drinking during pregnancy increases preterm labour risks, with higher consumption leading to greater risks. The safest choice is to avoid alcohol completely.
- Recreational drugs: Using illegal or recreational drugs can increase the chances of preterm birth. Be honest with your doctor if you’re using drugs. They can help you access support without judgment.
6. Prevent and Treat Infections
Infections can trigger preterm labour, particularly in the vaginal or urinary tract. To reduce your risk:- Get screened for infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, or bacterial vaginosis, as these are linked to preterm birth. Early treatment can lower risks.
- Visit your dentist regularly, as gum disease (periodontitis) may contribute to preterm labour. Good oral hygiene can help prevent this, including cleanings above and below the gum line.
- Avoid vaginal products like gels or douches, as some may disrupt your vaginal microbiome and increase preterm birth risk.
7. Take Folic Acid
Starting a folic acid supplement or its active form before pregnancy and continuing through the early months can reduce the risk of preterm birth. It also helps prevent serious birth defects. Begin taking it at least three months before trying to conceive, and discuss with your doctor to choose the right supplement and dosage for you.8. Space Pregnancies Appropriately
If you’ve had a preterm birth before, waiting at least 18 months before getting pregnant again gives your body time to recover and lowers the risk of another preterm delivery. Using effective contraception right after giving birth can help you achieve this spacing. Talk to your healthcare professional about the best contraception options for you.9.Consider Progesterone Treatment
If you’ve had a previous preterm birth before, you might be eligible for progesterone treatment in your next pregnancy. It can be beneficial and is usually given as oral medication or intramuscular injections. This treatment can help lower the chances of another early birth. Your healthcare professional will guide you through the process and explain how the treatment works.10. Monitor for Preterm Labour Signs
Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you notice these symptoms before your due date:- Regular contractions every 10 minutes or so.
- Constant dull backache.
- Mild abdominal cramps.
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure.
- Vaginal spotting or light bleeding.
- Fluid leaking from the vagina (water breaking).
- Changes in vaginal discharge.
FAQs on 10 Tips to Prevent Preterm Labour
- What causes preterm labour?
It can be caused by infections, high stress levels, being underweight or overweight, smoking, alcohol, drug use, or certain pregnancy complications like preeclampsia. - What are the signs of preterm labour I should watch for?
Watch for regular contractions, backache, pelvic pressure, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, or changes in discharge. Call your doctor if you notice any of these.