What is the first treatment for preterm labour?

Preterm labour means labour begins before the pregnancy reaches term. The team first assesses contractions, cervical change, fluid leakage, bleeding, infection and fetal wellbeing. An antenatal steroid injection may be offered when birth could happen soon because it helps the baby's lungs prepare for life after birth. Treatment depends on gestational age, examination findings and whether delivery or observation is safer.

Call your maternity unit immediately for regular tightening, pelvic pressure, period-like cramps, backache, bleeding or a gush or trickle of fluid. Bring your pregnancy notes and describe when symptoms began. Hospital assessment may include monitoring the baby's heartbeat, checking contractions, examining the cervix and testing fluid. Depending on the situation, medicines may be used to delay birth briefly, and transfer to a unit with newborn care may be discussed. A cervical cerclage is relevant only in selected situations and is not a routine first step during active labour.

Do not wait at home if you have suspected labour before term, heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever, foul-smelling fluid, reduced fetal movement or difficulty breathing. These symptoms need same-day maternity review because infection, placental problems or changes in the baby's condition may alter treatment.

Ask how the pregnancy is being dated, whether steroids or medicines to slow contractions are suitable, what monitoring is needed, and whether a neonatal team or transfer should be arranged.