Prematurity Awareness

Every year, an estimated 15 million babies are born prematurely worldwide, and many face health complications that can last a lifetime.

Premature birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is a leading cause of death among children under five years old, and those who survive may experience long-term health challenges.

At Busamed, we are committed to raising awareness about prematurity, providing the best possible care for premature infants, and empowering parents to recognise signs of preterm labour.

On this World Prematurity Day, Busamed’s Dr Nkoana shares pertinent information on the early warning signs of preterm labour, the risk factors associated with premature birth, and what actions to take if you believe you may be at risk.

Knowledge and early intervention can make a significant difference in ensuring a healthier outcome for both mom and baby.

Early warning signs of preterm labour

Recognising the early signs of preterm labour is crucial. It allows mothers and healthcare providers to take immediate steps to possibly delay delivery and improve outcomes for the baby. Some of the most common warning signs include:

Regular or frequent contractions: Contractions that occur more than four times an hour, especially if they are painful or feel like menstrual cramps, may indicate preterm labour.

Lower back pain: Persistent, dull lower back pain that does not go away when changing positions can be a warning sign, particularly if it is unusual for you.

Pelvic pressure: A feeling of increased pressure in the pelvis, which may feel like the baby is pushing down, can be a sign of preterm labour.

Changes in vaginal discharge: An increase in discharge, especially if it becomes watery, bloody, or tinged with pink, should be assessed by a healthcare provider.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. The sooner preterm labour is diagnosed, the more options there are to potentially slow down or stop the process, giving the baby more time to develop.

Who is at risk of preterm labour?

While any pregnancy can experience preterm labour, certain factors increase the likelihood. Some of the most common risk factors include:

History of preterm birth: Women who have had a previous premature birth are at higher risk of having another preterm baby.

Multiple pregnancies: Women carrying twins, triplets, or more are at a significantly increased risk of preterm labour.

Certain health conditions: Chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain infections, can increase the risk of preterm labour.

Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and infections of the amniotic fluid can trigger preterm labour, as well as sexually transmitted infections.

Shortened cervix: Women with a shortened cervix (measured via ultrasound) are at a higher risk for preterm labour.

Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use, drug use, and high levels of stress can contribute to preterm labour.

Age: Very young mothers (under 17) and older mothers (over 35) have a higher risk of preterm birth.

Poor prenatal care: Women who do not receive adequate prenatal care or who have a poor diet may be at a higher risk of preterm labour.

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Regular prenatal check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and managing chronic conditions can all help reduce your risk.

When to seek help

When it comes to preterm labour, timing is everything. Acting promptly can give your baby the best chance of a healthy start, even if they are born early. Here’s what to do if you suspect you may be going into preterm labour:

Contact your healthcare provider immediately: If you notice any of the early warning signs of preterm labour, call your healthcare provider right away. They may want to evaluate you in person or provide guidance over the phone.

Go to the hospital if necessary: In some cases, your provider may advise you to go directly to the hospital. The sooner you arrive, the sooner the medical team can intervene to help slow down or stop labour.

Avoid physical exertion: Rest as much as possible and avoid any activities that might exacerbate contractions or other symptoms.

Stay hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes lead to contractions, so be sure to drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids.

Prepare for possible interventions: If preterm labour is confirmed, there are several treatments that may be used, such as medications to help stop contractions, corticosteroids to promote foetal lung development, and antibiotics to treat infections.

Tips for reducing the risk of premature birth

While some factors are beyond our control, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk of premature birth:

Attend regular prenatal check-ups: Early and regular prenatal care helps healthcare providers monitor your pregnancy closely and address any issues before they escalate.

Manage chronic health conditions: Work with your healthcare provider to manage conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs: These substances increase the risk of preterm birth and other pregnancy complications. Seek support if you need help to quit.

Eat a balanced diet: A healthy, balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals supports foetal development and reduces the risk of premature labour.

Stay hydrated and rested: Proper hydration and rest help your body cope with the demands of pregnancy and can reduce the likelihood of preterm labour.

Premature birth is a complex and sometimes unpredictable challenge, but early awareness, preventative measures, and timely intervention can make a difference. At Busamed, we are here to support you every step of the way, providing compassionate care and cutting-edge medical expertise to give you and your baby the best possible outcome.