natural ways to prevent preterm labor

Preterm or premature labor is defined as defined as labor that happens before 37 weeks. Babies born before 37 weeks can have lifelong or life-threatening problems for your baby (March of Dimes). Some of these issues are lung immaturity that can lead to apnea, respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, anemia as well as other infections. According to the March of Dimes, 1 in 10 babies is born prematurely in the United States each year.  

Are you at risk?

Studies are not clear on what exactly causes preterm labor. But there are some risk factors that make your chances higher of suffering from preterm labor.

• Smoking
• Having issues with your cervix or uterus in the past
• Pregnant with multiples
• Not having any prenatal care

What are the signs and symptoms of preterm labor?

• If your water breaks (seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY)
• You feel cramps that are regular or frequent that make your belly hard
• Vaginal discharge that is bloody, or an increase in discharge

If your are experiencing any of these symptoms contact your midwife IMMEDIATELY!

Nutrition

Good Nutrition is key to a healthy baby.

Eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and lean protein are essential. Limiting the amount of sugars and refined foods are important for good health for both mother and baby

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Hydration from a clean water sources is essential. Make sure to put a slice of lemon, ginger or cucumber in your water. Drinking plain water can make you nauseous.

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relieve stress

Emotional issues can interfere and influence what you and your baby and your body feel and react. Being mindful to care for your mental health thru meditation as well as adequate sleep is extremely beneficial. 

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Herbs and vitamins that can help

Cramp bark is an herb that helps to relax the uterine muscles and help to reduce the chances of preterm labor. 

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Calm is a calcium/magnesium powdered supplement that is excellent for every vessel in our body. This item prevents edema (swelling), assists to keep your blood pressure down, prevents constipation and helps to relax your body to help you sleep. 

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Fish oil is an excellent herb for overall health if your are pregnant or not!

Vitamin D3 is essential especially for those dreary cloudy months of fall, winter and even spring. This is something we are all lacking in the northeast. 

False unicorn root will actually assist your body to return to an appropriate condition for the last weeks of your pregnancy.

Wild yams assist to stop cramps

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If you are ever in doubt of any of your signs or symptoms, call your midwife right away. A simple phone call can help alleviate any stress or anxiety you may be feeling. Check with your midwife before starting any herbs or medication. 

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​References
Frye, A. Holistic Midwifery A Comprehensive Textbook for Midwives in Homebirth Practice. Labrys Press. 1998
Gladstar, R. Herbal Healing for Women. Fireside Publishing. 1993.
​March of Dimes