WARNING SIGNS OF PREMATURE LABOR

• Uterine contractions that are 12 to 15 minutes apart of closer
  Abdomen feels tight or hard 4 to 6 times an hour. Contractions may be painless.
• Menstrual-like cramps
  Cramps, just above pubic bone, may be constant or come and go.
• Low, dull backache
  Ache may be constant or come and go and is not relieved by changing positions.
• Pelvic pressure
  It feels like the baby is pushing down.
• Increase or change in vaginal discharge
  Becomes heavier than usual, is blood-tinged, or is watery or mucus-like.
• Abdominal cramping
  May feel like severe gas pains, with or without diarrhea.
• Feeling bad
  You have a feeling that something is not right.

Other Warning Signs to Report to Your Healthcare Provider

• Unusual severe headache
• Dimmed or blurred vision, or seeing flashing bright lights or spots
• Increased swelling or puffiness in your hands, feet or face
• Chills or fever
• Pain or burning when urinating, or a decrease in urine output
• Vaginal itching, irritation or foul-smelling discharge
• Frequent vomiting for more than one day
• Cramping or sharp pain in the abdomen that does not go away
• If you fall or are in a car accident

Reprinted from "Carrying to Term: Preventing Premature Birth & Low-birthweight Babies" © 2004 Newborn Hope, Inc.