Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of preterm labor include:

• Regular or frequent sensations of abdominal tightening (contractions)
• Constant low, dull backache
• A sensation of pelvic or lower abdominal pressure
• Mild abdominal cramps
• Vaginal spotting or light bleeding
• Preterm rupture of membranes — in a gush or a continuous trickle of fluid after the membrane around the baby breaks or tears
• A change in type of vaginal discharge — watery, mucus-like or bloody

When to see a doctor

If you experience these signs or symptoms or you're concerned about what you're feeling, contact your health care provider right away. Don't worry about mistaking false labor for the real thing. Everyone will be pleased if it's a false alarm.