What are the signs and symptoms of preterm labor and what should I do if I have any of them?

Call your obstetrician or other health care professional right away if you notice any of these signs or symptoms:

• Change in type of vaginal discharge
• Increase in amount of discharge
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure
• Constant low, dull backache
• Mild abdominal cramps, with or without diarrhea
• Regular or frequent contractions or uterine tightening, often pinless
• Ruptured membranes (your water breaks with a gush or a trickle

of fluid)