Preterm Birth: What Happens When You Go into Labour Too Soon
Understanding Preterm Birth
Preterm Birth refers to delivering a baby before 37 weeks of pregnancy. A full-term pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks, giving the baby enough time to develop vital organs and systems. When labour starts too early, both the mother and baby may face medical challenges that require immediate and skilled attention.
Globally, about 10% of babies are born prematurely. Thanks to advances in neonatal care and vigilant prenatal monitoring, survival rates have improved significantly. However, awareness, early detection, and the right medical intervention can make a major difference in outcomes for both mother and child.
What Is Considered a Preterm Birth?
Preterm births are categorized based on gestational age:
- Late preterm: 34 to 36 weeks
- Moderate preterm: 32 to 34 weeks
- Very preterm: Before 32 weeks
Each stage presents unique challenges — from breathing difficulties to feeding issues and increased infection risks. Nevertheless, with timely care from specialists like Dr Nehal Dhaduk, most premature babies can thrive and grow normally.
Causes and Risk Factors of Preterm Birth
Medical and Genetic Causes
Several health conditions can trigger early labour, including high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, gestational diabetes, or uterine abnormalities. A previous Preterm Birth or a family history of the same also raises risk.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Habits such as smoking, alcohol use, or inadequate nutrition increase preterm risks. Additionally, heavy physical work, lack of sleep, or exposure to environmental pollutants may contribute to early uterine contractions.
How Stress and Infections Influence Preterm Labour
Chronic stress releases hormones that can prematurely activate labour processes. Similarly, infections in the bladder, uterus, or vagina can cause inflammation of fetal membranes, leading to rupture and early delivery.
Recognizing the Early Signs of Preterm Labour
Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
It’s crucial for expecting mothers to recognize potential warning signs:
- Regular or frequent contractions before 37 weeks.
- Persistent pelvic pressure or back pain.
- Vaginal fluid leakage or spotting.
- Decrease in fetal movements.
When to Call Your Doctor or Visit a Gynaecologist in Sector 10A Gurgaon
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a Gynaecologist in Sector 10A Gurgaon immediately. Dr Nehal Dhaduk at Atharva Gynae Clinic, Sector 10A, Gurgaon, provides round-the-clock support and uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess your labour status and ensure the safety of you and your baby.
What Happens During Preterm Labour
In hospital settings, the medical team first confirms whether you are truly in labour using tests such as cervical examination, fetal monitoring, and ultrasound. If the labour is confirmed, treatments may be given to delay delivery, improve fetal lung maturity, and prevent complications. These may include medications like corticosteroids, magnesium sulfate, and tocolytics.
At Atharva Gynae Clinic, Dr Nehal Dhaduk takes a highly personalized approach — closely monitoring mother and baby to manage contractions and stabilize conditions before delivery.
Treatment and Prevention Options
Medical Interventions and Medications
Doctors may use a combination of:
- Corticosteroids to strengthen the baby’s lungs.
- Magnesium sulfate to protect the baby’s brain.
- Tocolytics to temporarily stop contractions.
- Antibiotics if infection is suspected.
Role of Regular Prenatal Care
Frequent prenatal visits can help identify and manage risk factors early. Under Dr Nehal Dhaduk’s supervision at Atharva Gynae Clinic, Sector 10A, Gurgaon, expectant mothers receive tailored care plans that focus on prevention, diet, and lifestyle management.
Caring for a Preterm Baby After Birth
Babies born before 37 weeks often require care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Here, healthcare professionals focus on supporting the baby’s breathing, temperature, and feeding. Parental involvement through practices like kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact) strengthens bonding and enhances recovery.
As the baby grows, regular pediatric checkups and developmental screenings ensure steady progress through key milestones.
The Emotional Side of Preterm Birth
The experience of delivering early can be emotionally taxing. Many mothers face fear, uncertainty, and guilt. Emotional support from family, counseling, and peer groups is essential during this period.
At Atharva Gynae Clinic, emotional well-being is treated as a part of the recovery process. Dr Nehal Dhaduk and her team encourage open discussions to help parents cope with anxiety and regain confidence.
Why Consulting an Expert Like Dr Nehal Dhaduk Matters
TA highly regarded Gynaecologist in Sector 10A Gurgaon, Dr Nehal Dhaduk combines advanced medical expertise with empathy and patient education. Her clinic — Atharva Gynae Clinic, Sector 10A, Gurgaon — is equipped with modern facilities for pregnancy monitoring, ultrasound, and preterm management.
Timely consultation with a specialist ensures that any warning signs are managed early, reducing the risks associated with Preterm Birth and improving outcomes for both mother and baby.
FAQs About Preterm Birth
1. What is the biggest risk associated with preterm birth?
The main risks include respiratory issues, low birth weight, and developmental delays, but early medical care greatly reduces complications.
2. Can preterm labour be stopped once it starts?
In many cases, yes. Doctors can use medications to delay labour long enough for the baby to develop further.
3. What should I do if I feel contractions before 37 weeks?
Call your doctor or visit a trusted Gynaecologist in Sector 10A Gurgaon such as Dr Nehal Dhaduk for an immediate evaluation.
4. How can I reduce my risk of preterm birth?
Attend all prenatal appointments, manage stress, avoid smoking or alcohol, and eat a balanced diet.
5. Are preterm babies healthy later in life?
With proper neonatal care and follow-up, most preterm babies grow into healthy children and adults.
6. Where can I get reliable preterm birth treatment in Gurgaon?
Attend all prenatal appointments, manage stress, avoid smoking or alcohol, and eat a balanced diet.
Conclusion: Compassionate Care for a Safer Tomorrow
While Preterm Birth can seem daunting, modern medicine and compassionate care can make all the difference. Early intervention, guided by an experienced specialist like Dr Nehal Dhaduk, ensures safer outcomes for both mother and baby.
For personalized prenatal and pregnancy care, visit Atharva Gynae Clinic, Sector 10A, Gurgaon, where every expectant mother is treated with dedication, empathy, and expertise.
