Can activity restriction help?

If you've had an episode of suspected preterm labor or you're at high risk of premature birth, your health care provider might recommend activity restriction. This might mean avoiding lifting items heavier than 20 pounds (about 9 kilograms) and limiting recreational exercise, particularly strength training and heavy lifting. It might also include changing your work schedule, if it involves working more than 40 hours a week, night shifts, prolonged standing and heavy physical work.

If you've had a stopped (arrested) episode of preterm labor and you experience an increase in the frequency or intensity of contractions after sex, your health care provider might recommend avoiding sexual activity.

If your water breaks before labor starts (prelabor rupture of membranes), you have a low-lying placenta, or your placenta partially or totally covers your cervix (placenta previa), your health care provider will discuss avoiding activities such as sex and exercise.