Preterm birth prevention

• Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
• The earlier a baby is born, the greater the chance of health complications.
• Many of the risks of preterm birth can be reduced with the right care and support.

What is preterm birth?

Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Whist most babies are born healthy and at full term some women may have risk factors that increase the chance of early birth. The earlier a baby is born, the greater the chance of health complications. Preventing early birth when it is safe to do so is an important part of maternity care.

The good news is that many of these risks can be reduced with the right care and support.

Who is at risk?

Some women have a higher chance of preterm birth. Risk factors may include:

• a previous preterm birth or miscarriage after 14 weeks
• shortened cervix on ultrasound, usually done at 19-20 weeks
• carrying twins or triplets
• uterine abnormalities e.g. bicornuate uterus
• cervical surgeries e.g. cone biopsy, LLETZ procedures
• certain medical conditions e.g. high blood pressure, diabetes, autoimmune conditions
• smoking or vaping.

How can preterm birth be prevented?

There are many ways in which preterm birth can be prevented and these depend on individual risks. Your doctor or midwife may recommend one or more of the following:

1. Cervical length ultrasound measurement
   Extra ultrasounds from 15 -16 weeks measure the length of your cervix. If your cervix is shorter than expected there are further treatments that can be offered. 
2. Progesterone treatment
   Vaginal progesterone helps reduce the chance of early labour. This may be recommended if your cervix is short, or you’ve had a previous preterm birth.
3. Cervical cerclage
   A stich (cerclage) may be recommended if you have had very early births in the past or if your cervix shortens significantly. This is done in hospital by a doctor.
4. Aspirin for some women
   Low dose aspirin may be advised if you are higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia (a complication of pregnancy which can cause high blood pressure) and can contribute to early birth. Your doctor or midwife will discuss whether this is right for you.
5. Support to stop smoking or vaping
   Stopping smoking/vaping during your pregnancy reduces the risk significantly for early birth. We can help with support programs including Quitline and Nicotine Replacement Therapy.
6. Regular antenatal care
   Accessing antenatal care early and keeping all your appointments helps monitor your baby’s growth and your health. It allows for early referral is complications are suspected.

What can I do to reduce my risk?

As soon as you find out you are pregnant you should see your GP or midwife. They will arrange your tests and refer you for regular antenatal care.

• Attend all appointments
• Have scans as requested
• Take recommend medications
• Maintain healthy lifestyle
• Call advice lines if you have any concerns

Know the warning signs of preterm birth

Contact your maternity service immediately if you experience:

• period-type cramps or tightenings
• pressure low in the pelvis
• back pain that does not go away
• fluid leaking from your vagina
• bleeding
• a change in your baby’s movements.

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.