When should you worry about back pain in pregnancy if you have preterm labour?

Preterm labour can involve a dull lower-back ache, pelvic pressure, period-like cramps, abdominal tightening, or a change in vaginal discharge. Back pain can also result from posture, muscles, or pelvic girdle pain. The pattern, timing, and accompanying symptoms matter more than the location alone, and only a maternity assessment can establish whether labour is starting.

Stop strenuous activity, rest in a comfortable position, and note when the pain starts, how long it lasts, and whether it repeats. Pay attention to tightening, fluid leakage, bleeding, pelvic pressure, and changes in fetal movements. Do not wait for pain to become severe before calling if you are concerned or have been told you are at risk. Keep your maternity unit's contact details accessible.

Call your maternity unit promptly for repeated tightenings, period-like cramps, pelvic pressure, vaginal bleeding, watery fluid from the vagina, a sudden increase in discharge, or reduced fetal movements. Seek urgent help for severe constant pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, fever, or feeling very unwell. Tell the team how many weeks pregnant you are and whether you have a history of preterm labour.

Ask what symptoms should trigger an immediate call, how your pain should be monitored, and whether you need assessment today. Clarify who to contact outside clinic hours, how fetal movements should be checked, and what treatment or observation may be offered if preterm labour is suspected.