If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms, CALL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY:

• Bleeding - if you experience vaginal bleeding, a large gush or steady stream of bright red blood, IT IS AN EMERGENCY.  Get help immediately, lie on your side and put your feet higher than your head.  Save pads or cloths used to catch the blood.

• Rupture of the Bag of Water (Amniotic Sac) - Sometimes the bag of water around the baby will rupture prematurely.  If you notice a gush of fluid or a steady trickle of fluid you should call your doctor immediately.  Be sure to note any color or odor that might be present in the fluid.  Save pads or cloths and bring them with you to your doctor or the hospital.

• Severe Stomach Pain - if you have constant, severe pain that does not go away when you change position, with or without contractions, call your doctor immediately.

What will happen if you go to the Hospital

You may be told by your doctor to go to the hospital if they feel you may be experiencing preterm labor.  At the hospital, a nurse will take your temperature, pulse and blood pressure.  A fetal monitor may be placed on your abdomen to see if you are having contractions and to check your baby's heart rate.  If you are in labor, and your doctor feels your pregnancy should be prolonged, treatment may include bedrest, I.V. fluids, medications, and continued monitoring of your contractions and your baby's heart rate.  If it is felt that you are not in labor, or having any other problems, you may be allowed to go home.