Warning Signs of Pre-term Labor

While it may be normal to experience any of these symptoms at different times in your pregnancy, a combination of symptoms may be an indication of pre-term labor.

• Menstrual-like cramps – Constant or come and go, just above the pubic bone
• Low, dull backache – Constant or comes and goes
• Pressure – Feels like the baby is pushing down; feels heavy
• Abdominal cramping – With or without diarrhea
• Increase or change in vaginal discharge – Thick mucus
• Fluid leaking from the vagina
• Feeling bad or like "something isn't right"
• Uterine contractions that are 10 minutes apart or closer – May be painless

If you have more than four contractions per hour or these warning signs occur, go to bed and lie down on your side. Drink two large glasses of water or juice in one hour. If your symptoms continue despite these measures, call your physician. Call immediately if there is leakage of blood or fluid from your vagina.