Premature labor is labor that occurs any earlier than 37 gestation. Most twin pregnancies will be monitored regularly for preterm labor among other reasons. Recognizing the signs of early labor are important as prevention may be a possibility, giving your twin babies a better chance of survival.
During the third trimester you may have more appointments with your doctor and possible ultrasounds to check the growth and generally well being of your twins.
If your babies are born before the 37th week this is called a preterm birth. Generally babies born between 34 and 37 gestation are likely to do incredibly well.
Keep in mind that over half of twins are born prematurely with higher order multiples being born almost always preterm. Very few are born severely premature, before the 28th week.
The cause of premature labor has no one answer, it could be a problem with both or one of your twins, the mother or jointly mother and babies. Being aware and prepared could be crucial to the health of you and your babies. Listening to your body and those feelings of worry are great indicators, its good practise to follow up with your doctor with every concern you may have.
There are of course reasons to intentionally proceed with a premature birth. Complications such as preeclampsia could result in your medical professional performing a cesarean section or deciding to induce labor.
Remember it is important to be aware but not alarmed. Having the right medical care during your twin pregnancy is beneficial for the health of you and your babies.
**If you suspect you are going into labor contact your doctor immediately especially if you are early on in your twin pregnancy. Always discuss with your physician in detail the signs and preventions of premature labor before the fact.**
Having twins is an extraordinary experience but it is essential not to let the fear of what if take over, just take every day as it comes relax and enjoy your pregnancy.
If you are experiencing uncomfort, take a look at some tips for pain relief during labor
These can include the following:
Click here for more detail on Signs of Labor
If you are worried there are a few things you can do to help delay the onset of labor, and the delivery of premature twins, labor prevention can include:
Early detection is the best solution though preventing preterm labor is not always possible. Once premature labor has been diagnosed by your doctor or midwife there are a number of treatment options, these can include:
Have you got any further questions, then check out our Twin Pregnancy FAQs