Preterm Labor – Diagnosis

Transcript

If you’re experiencing preterm labor, you’re most likely to be diagnosed in the office or in the hospital, specifically after you’ve seen your healthcare provider. You may be placed on an electronic monitor to determine your contractions and how often they’re happening. This can really determine if you’re experiencing preterm labor or what’s called Braxton Hicks or false labor. Also by being placed on a fetal heart monitor, your physician will determine if the baby is doing okay. You may also have a cervical examination, an evaluation to determine if your amniotic fluid membranes are intact, or if you broke your water. You can also have a pelvic examination to determine if your cervix is opening or not. All of that is done in the setting of a hospital.