2nd and 3rd page

• Preterm Labor


  Occurs before the end of 37th week of gestation, approximately 9% to 11% of pregnancy
• Age of Viability is 22 weeks (5 months)
• Administering corticosteroids to the fetus accelerates the formation of lung surfactant
• Symptoms of Preterm Labor

  • Persistent, dull, and low backache
  • Vaginal spotting
  • Uterine contractions
• Integumentary system is not developed at 8 months (no thermoregulation)
• Therapeutic management for preterm labor

  1. Bed rest

  2. Intravenous fluid therapy

  3. Tocolytic agent like Terbutaline
• Tocolytics prevent contractions, but preterm labor cannot be halted under certain conditions
• Immediate and delayed risks and complications of PROM and PPROM are outlined
• Therapeutic management for preterm labor includes medical attempts to stop labor under specific conditions
• 37th week and 6/7 is considered term, while preterm is before 37th week (8 months)
• Preterm Labor Medication/Off Label Medication

  • Terbutaline
  • Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)
  • Betamethasone
  • Dexamethasone
• Precursors of Preterm Labor

  • Dehydration
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Periodontal disease
  • Lack of prenatal care
• Lung releases surfactant at 7 months, an enzyme that allows the lungs to expand
• Magnesium sulfate may reduce the risk of specific brain damage (cerebral palsy) before 32 weeks
• Risk Factors for PROM and PPROM

  • Chorioamnionitis
  • Vaginal infections
  • Cervical abnormalities
  • Smoking
  • Intrauterine infections
  • Multiple pregnancy
  • Cervical incompetence
  • Vaginal exam
  • Sweeping of the membranes
  • Nutritional deficiency
  • Smoking