12 December, 2025
By User
What is preterm labour?
Preterm labour refers to uterine contractions leading to cervical changes that occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It can cause early birth, which may pose health risks for the baby. Early detection through timely pregnancy check up and consistent prenatal care is crucial to prevent complications.
Preterm labour is one of the most critical pregnancy complications, yet it’s often misunderstood or ignored until symptoms become severe. According to many specialists, including the best gynecologist in North Kolkata, awareness, timely diagnosis, and continuous prenatal care can significantly reduce the risks associated with preterm birth.
Expecting mothers under the guidance of experts like Dr. Sukhamoy Barik often receive structured monitoring, early symptom management, and lifestyle guidance, ensuring safer outcomes for both mother and baby. This guide simplifies everything you need to know—causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention—so you can feel confident and prepared.
Preterm labour occurs when a mother begins having:
before completing 37 weeks of gestation.
Early labour increases the chances of:
Consistent monitoring from the best gynecologist in North Kolkata helps detect early warning signs and prevent escalation.
More than 4–5 contractions per hour.
A feeling that the baby is pushing downward.
Persistent, dull, or rhythmic lower-back pain.
Similar to menstrual cramps but occurring repeatedly.
Water-like leaking, spotting, or mucus plug release.
Possible rupture of membranes (water breaking).
A sudden slowdown in baby activity.
Routine pregnancy check up appointments can help catch these symptoms in time.
Urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, or fever-triggering conditions.
Twins, triplets, or more.
Placenta previa, placental abruption.
Restricts oxygen supply to the fetus.
Triggers hormone changes.
Lack of vitamins, minerals, or essential nutrients.
Irregular checkups increase risk of missed conditions.
| Risk Factor | Why It Increases Risk |
|---|---|
| Previous preterm birth | Higher recurrence chances |
| Short cervix | Cannot hold pregnancy weight |
| Multiple pregnancy | More pressure on uterus |
| Chronic illnesses | Affect placenta & fetal growth |
| Age <18 or >35 | Hormonal and uterine complications |
| Underweight or obesity | Impacts fetal development |
| Poor prenatal care | Late diagnosis of complications |
Regular monitoring by experts like Dr. Sukhamoy Barik helps reduce many of these risks through targeted prevention.
Checks cervical dilation and effacement.
Measures cervical length and amniotic fluid.
Detects risk of labour within 7–14 days.
Monitors fetal movement and heart rate.
Counts frequency and intensity of contractions.
Medications that temporarily stop contractions.
Improve fetal lung development.
Protects the baby’s brain from neurological damage.
Given if the water bag has ruptured.
A stitch placed around the cervix to prevent opening.
Reduces chances of preterm labour in high-risk women.
Reduces uterine irritability.
Professionals like the best gynecologist in North Kolkata ensure close monitoring for both mother and baby.
| Nutrient | Why It Matters | Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | Prevents anemia | Spinach, lentils, meat |
| Folic Acid | Reduces birth defects | Supplements, grains |
| Calcium | Supports bones | Milk, tofu |
| Omega-3 | Improves fetal growth | Fish, flaxseed |
| Protein | Tissue development | Eggs, paneer |
Consistent prenatal care helps doctors:
This is where experienced specialists like Dr. Sukhamoy Barik offer multilayered monitoring ensuring safer pregnancy outcomes.
Do not wait—contact your gynecologist immediately.
Any labour before 37 weeks is considered preterm.
Yes, in many cases medications and rest can delay labour.
Women with previous preterm birth, infections, chronic illnesses, or poor prenatal care.
It assists in early detection of risks and timely intervention.
If you have contractions, bleeding, leaking fluid, or decreased fetal movement.