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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.
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