Under normal circumstances, the gestation period is 40 weeks, that is, 280 days, taking as reference the day when the last menstrual period begins. In some cases, this period may be shortened or extended. Premature birth may occur due to some abnormal situations during pregnancy.
Factors that increase the risk of premature birth; They can be listed as urinary tract infections in the mother, abnormalities in the structure of the placenta, excess water in the baby (Polyhydramnios), multiple pregnancies (twins-triplets), structural abnormalities in the uterus and cervix, and benign tumors on the uterine wall such as myoma. At the same time, situations such as undergoing surgery or receiving a blow to the abdominal area during pregnancy can also cause premature birth.
Risk Factors in Preterm Birth
The expectant mother; The risk of premature birth increases if the child is younger than 18 years of age, is older than 35 years of age, has given birth prematurely before, has used alcohol or cigarettes during pregnancy, has insufficient prenatal weight, and is short between births. It should also be remembered that stress factors can also cause premature birth. Symptoms of premature birth; Pain and hardening in the abdominal area, pain and cramping in the groin, lower back pain, breaking of birth water or watery discharge from the vagina, spotting or bleeding, feeling of pressure downwards from the abdominal area are among the symptoms of premature birth. Expectant mothers who experience these symptoms should contact their doctor without delay.
Irregular contractions felt in the last weeks, called Braxton-Hicks during pregnancy, are contractions in preparation for birth and can be relieved with rest. Unlike these contractions, premature birth contractions need to be evaluated by a doctor. If you experience conditions such as chronic pain and pressure in the waist and back area, diarrhea and intestinal cramps in the last three months of pregnancy, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Most of the time, the cause of premature birth is unknown and cannot be prevented.
To prevent premature birth, drinking plenty of fluids and resting frequently, and bed rest if early contractions begin, are of great importance. At the same time, eating healthy, not skipping doctor's check-ups and following the doctor's recommendations, staying away from stress and keeping chronic diseases under control can reduce the risk of premature birth.
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