What should you know about preterm labour without delivery?

Contractions may become less frequent, while the cervix remains unchanged; this is different from labour that continues to open the cervix. A clinician may also check whether the waters are intact and whether infection, bleeding or another problem is present. Feeling better does not confirm that assessment is unnecessary.

The team may recommend observation, advice about activity and a review plan. If early birth remains a concern, an antenatal corticosteroid injection may be discussed. A cervical cerclage is reserved for selected situations and cannot be assumed to be suitable after contractions have started.

Call your maternity unit when preterm labour symptoms start, even if they later slow down. Describe the pattern of tightenings, any fluid or blood, pain, temperature symptoms and changes in fetal movement. Follow the discharge plan and keep any scheduled review.

Do not self-diagnose recurrent symptoms. Ask when normal activities can resume, whether intercourse or travel should be avoided for now, and which signs mean you should return directly to hospital.

Seek urgent assessment for new regular contractions, fluid leakage, bleeding, fever, chills, worsening pain or reduced fetal movement. Call emergency services if you feel faint, severely unwell, have heavy bleeding or believe delivery is imminent.

Ask whether your cervix changed, whether your membranes are intact, what follow-up is needed and whether medication is appropriate. Confirm the exact phone number and the symptoms that require immediate return.