Causes
There are many reasons why a woman would go into labor before her scheduled due date, including:
- Having previously delivered prematurely
- A ruptured amniotic sac (ruptured membranes)
- Infections of the urinary tract or cervix
- A weak cervix—prior surgical procedures
- Abnormalities in the uterus, including fibroids and malformations of the uterus
- Twins or higher number of fetuses
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs during pregnancy—especially cocaine
- Poor nutrition during pregnancy
- Too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios)
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Chronic diseases like:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Lupus
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chance of delivering prematurely:
- Having multiple births (twins, triplets, quadruplets, etc.)
- Having a chronic disease—For example, if you have poorly controlled asthma , this may increase your risk. *¹
- Having had a previous premature birth
- Poor prenatal care, or poor nutrition during pregnancy
- Substance abuse during pregnancy
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.