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What factors can trigger a preterm labour?

While the exact causes of preterm labour remain unclear, some risk factors include: smoking; uterine and vaginal infections; structural abnormalities of the uterus and/or cervix; multiple birth (twin/triplets), and underlying conditions such as pre-eclampsia, diabetes or placenta praevia (a type of low-lying placenta).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is labour?

Labour is the process through which the baby is born into the outside world at the end of a pregnancy.

What are the signs of labour?

Some of the more typical signs of labour include regular and painful contractions of the uterus, dilation (widening) of the cervix, a 'bloody show' - blood-stained vaginal discharge caused by the loss of the mucus plug that seals the cervix during pregnancy, …

How is labour treated?

The treatment a mother and baby receive during labour can vary widely depending on their health, the stage of pregnancy and the preferences of the mother and treating health professionals. Pain relief can be used to ease the pain and stress of labour. Some women may …

What increases the chances of developing complications during labour?

Some risk factors that can make complications more likely include: increasing age, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.

What can make labour pain worse?

Some measures may actually increase the pain of labour, including: lying on your back makes the uterus contract forward and puts all the weight on your back; stress and fear increase muscular tension; oxytocin can speed up labour and intensify contraction …

What are the side effects of taking medications for labour?

Some of the medications used for pain relief during labour may leave the mother feeling light-headed and nauseated. Some medications may interfere with the baby's breathing and first feed. If an epidural is used for pain relief, …

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About this article

Author: Dr Bow Tauro PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 24 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 18 May 2018
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Votes: 615 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Caesarean section

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