St. Luke’s Maternal Fetal Medicine

Premature Labor

Premature labor is one of the most expensive health problems in America, costing several billion dollars per year. Much of the problem that exists with a spontaneous pre-term labor and birth includes educating doctors and patients as to the risk factors for spontaneous pre-term birth and identifying those who are at an increased risk. Unfortunately, the majority of patients who experience spontaneous pre-term labor do not have underlying risk factors. The more common risk factors that we do know for spontaneous pre-term birth are: previous spontaneous pre-term birth; multiple pregnancies; uterine abnormality; previous cervical surgery, or LEEP; multiple miscarriages, whether in the first or second trimester; and underlying medical conditions that result in pre-term birth.

One of the primary goals of doctors, in attempting to prevent spontaneous pre-term birth, is identification of those who are at risk, in addition to identifying the associated symptoms. These symptoms can include lower abdominal cramping, low back pain, an increase in vaginal discharge, leg cramping, and regular uterine tightening. One or more of these symptoms should be reported to your obstetrical care provider. There is no evidence that intercourse during pregnancy increases the risk of pre-term labor; talk with your obstetrical care provider if you have concerns. Any questions regarding your current risk for pre-term labor should be addressed to your primary obstetrical provider.

If you have significant heart disease, it is preferable that you visit with your physician BEFORE attempting to become pregnant, in order to discuss the risks of pregnancy associated with your underlying heart condition.

St. Luke’s Maternal Fetal Medicine
333 N. 1st Street, Suite 150
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 381-3088