A–Z Glossary

Medically indicated preterm birth

Medically indicated preterm birth is an early delivery recommended because continuing the pregnancy poses substantial risk to the pregnant person or fetus.

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Preterm labor causes and risks

Preterm labor causes and risks

What preterm labor means Preterm labor is generally defined as labor that begins before 37 completed weeks of gestation. Clinically, this means regular uterine contractions accompanied by cervical change, such as dilation or effacement. This distinction matters because many pregnant people experience Braxton Hicks contractions or transient uterine irritability, particularly in the third trimester, without […]