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Specific treatment for preterm labor will be
determined by your physician based on:
-
your
pregnancy, overall health, and medical history
-
extent
of the condition
-
your
tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
-
expectations
for the course of the condition
-
your opinion or preference
Treatment for preterm labor may include:
-
Bedrest
(either at home or in the hospital may be recommended)
-
Hospitalization
(as specialized personnel and equipment may be necessary)
-
Tocolytic
Medications - medications to help slow or stop contractions. These may
be given in an injection or intravenously. Tocolytic medications often used
include terbutaline and magnesium sulfate.
-
Corticosteroid
Medications - medications that may help mature the lungs of the fetus.
Lung immaturity is a major problem of premature babies.
-
Cervical
Cerclage - a procedure used to suture the cervical opening. Cerclage is
used for women with an incompetent cervix. This is a condition in which the
cervix is physically weak and unable to stay closed during pregnancy.
-
Antibiotics
(to treat infection)
-
Delivery
- if treatments do not stop preterm labor or if the fetus or mother is in
danger, delivery of the baby may occur. Cesarean delivery may be recommended
in certain cases.
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