Which specialist treats preterm labour?

The obstetrician assesses contractions, cervical change, bleeding, fluid loss, pain, and the baby's wellbeing. Midwives support monitoring and comfort, while a neonatology team may advise if an early birth seems possible. The exact team depends on your pregnancy, gestation, symptoms, and local maternity services.

Assessment can distinguish preterm labour from Braxton Hicks contractions and other causes of pregnancy discomfort. Treatment may include observation, medicines, or planning for birth. An antenatal steroid injection may be discussed when it could help prepare the baby's lungs; a cervical cerclage is relevant in selected situations involving the cervix.

Contact your maternity unit immediately if you have regular tightening, new back pain, pelvic pressure, vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, or severe abdominal pain before your due date. Do not wait for symptoms to become stronger. Note when tightenings began, how often they occur, and whether fluid has a colour or smell, but do not delay calling to collect these details.

The maternity team may ask you to attend for examination and monitoring. Take your pregnancy records and medication list if it is safe to do so.

Seek emergency maternity care for waters breaking, heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, regular painful contractions, fever, faintness, or reduced fetal movement. These signs need prompt assessment because urgency is determined by the symptom and pregnancy context, not by how common preterm labour is.

Has my cervix changed? Are my waters intact? How will you monitor the baby? Would antenatal corticosteroids be suitable? What warning signs mean I should return? Where should I go if symptoms recur?