Preterm labor without delivery Save
ICD-10 code: O60.0
Chapter: Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
Preterm Labor Without Delivery: What You Need to Know
Preterm labor is defined as labor that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It can be a concerning and potentially dangerous situation for both the mother and the baby. However, preterm labor doesn't always result in delivery. In some cases, labor can be stopped or delayed with medical intervention, allowing the pregnancy to continue until full term.
If you're experiencing symptoms of preterm labor, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Some signs of preterm labor include:
- Contractions that occur more than six times in an hour
- Menstrual-like cramps in the lower abdomen
- Pressure in the pelvis or lower back
- Fluid leaking from the vagina
- Increased vaginal discharge
If you're diagnosed with preterm labor, your healthcare provider may recommend medications to stop or delay labor. These medications can include tocolytics, which are drugs that relax the uterus and slow or stop contractions. Your healthcare provider may also recommend bedrest or other lifestyle changes to help prevent preterm labor from progressing.
It's important to note that preterm labor without delivery can still have risks for both the mother and the baby. Babies born before 37 weeks may have difficulty breathing, feeding, and regulating their body temperature. They may also be at an increased risk for developmental delays and other health problems. Mothers who experience preterm labor may be at an increased risk for infection, bleeding, and other complications.
If you're at risk for preterm labor, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. These include:
- Getting regular prenatal care
- Managing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting plenty of rest
If you're experiencing symptoms of preterm labor or if you're at risk for preterm labor, talk to your healthcare provider. With early intervention and proper medical care, preterm labor without delivery can often be managed, allowing for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.