Understanding Premature Labor & 34-Week Concerns | Expert Advice

Question
i am 34 weeks prego, and was just released from hospital for a UTI that was causing regular contractions. they had to give me 3 doses of something to stop them. they informed me i'm 1cm dilated -2station . this is my second baby .does this mean labor will start soon ?

Answer
Dear Cierra


Unfortunately, till now, there is no single test available to predict when labor starts in any woman.

Urinary tract infection accounts for 30% of cases of preterm labor. It should be treated aggressively to stop contractions and prevent the occurence of labor.

In some cases of preterm labor,some obstetrician give a drug belonging to a group of drugs, known as tocolytics to prevent the occurence of contractions till 37 weeks but this approach is controversial. Others, give corticosteroids, after testing for the baby's lung maturity, as respiratory problems is a major concern for babies delivered before 37 weeks but again this is controversial.

The best thing is to discuss the options with your caring doctor and hopefuly you will continue for 3 more weeks.

Good Luck