Understanding 1cm Dilation at 33 Weeks: What to Expect

Question
I am 33 weeks pregnant and was told yesterday that I am 1 cm dilated. i was given turbuterol tablets to take every 6 hours, but the painless contractions are still coming every few minutes. i have not had leakage of fluid or mucus plug. does this mean pre-term labor is imminent? i have mestural like cramping and pain in my pubic bone, but mot of the contractions are pain-free (just tightening of my uterus).

Thanks!

Answer
You be dilated up to 1cm for your entire rest of your pregnancy. As long as you are not having regular, painful contractions at the level of your belly button, that come evwery 5 minutes apart and last for 1 minutes, you do not have to worry. If you feel painful contractions, and there is no progression of dilatation, you do not have to worry. Drink plenty of fluid. If you have any doubts, contact your doctor and get checked. I would continue the terbutaline until you are 37 weeks gestation.