Pre-term labor occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy. About 10 percent of babies born in the United States are considered pre-term, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says.
The organization says these factors may increase the risk of pre-term labor:
- Having had pre-term labor in this or a prior pregnancy.
- Using cocaine or smoking cigarettes.
- Having a multiple pregnancy (twins or more).
- Having had a child born with a chromosomal disorder.
- Having an abnormality in the cervix or uterus.
- Having abdominal surgery during pregnancy.
- Having an infection during pregnancy.
- Bleeding during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
- Being underweight, or having insufficient prenatal care.
- Having a mother or grandmother who took a drug called DES (diethylstilbestrol).
Health Tip: Symptoms That May Indicate Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia occurs when a pregnant woman's blood pressure spikes rapidly. It can lead to stroke, organ failure and other life-threatening conditions in both the mother and baby.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says possible warning signs of preeclampsia include:
- Headaches.
- Vision abnormalities.
- Quickly gaining weight.
- Swollen face and hands.
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