In general, a normal human pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, or just more than 9 months, from the start of the last menstrual period to childbirth. Labor that begins before 37 weeks is called preterm labor (or premature labor). A birth that occurs before 37 weeks is considered a preterm birth.
Preterm birth is the most common cause of infant death and is the leading cause of long-term disability related to the nervous system in children.
NICHD is working both on its own and in collaboration with other agencies and organizations to learn more about the causes of preterm labor and birth, improve ways to predict which women are at risk for preterm delivery, and identify prevention methods to reduce the number of infants born early.
NICHD also is studying ways to improve care for infants born too early in order to reduce death and disability associated with preterm birth.
General Information
A birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered preterm (premature). Labor beginning before 37 weeks is called preterm labor. Preterm birth is the most common cause of infant death.
If you have symptoms of preterm labor, such as contractions or fluid leaking from your vagina, you should call your doctor.
Preterm labor and premature birth have many complex causes that are not well understood. Medical, biological, and psychological factors may all play a role in preterm labor and birth.
Medical conditions, pregnancy complications, genetic issues, and other factors can increase your risk for spontaneous preterm labor or birth.
There is currently no clear way to predict preterm labor or birth. Many research studies are focusing on this important problem.
To diagnose preterm labor, your doctor may do a physical exam and ultrasound scans and test your vaginal fluid.
Currently, there is no treatment that can prevent preterm labor and birth, but some things can help delay childbirth.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on preterm labor and birth and on many disorders associated with them.
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to preterm labor and birth.
More Information
Find answers to other common questions about preterm labor and birth, such as signs of preterm labor, treatments to delay childbirth, and the effects of preterm birth on infants.
Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about preterm labor and birth.
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