Preterm labor

Preterm labor occurs when the body begins the process of childbirth before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It involves regular contractions that cause the cervix to open earlier than it should, which can lead to delivering a baby before full development. This can pose health risks for both the baby and mother, as premature babies might have underdeveloped organs. Causes can include infections, stress, or health conditions, but sometimes it happens with no clear reason. Doctors aim to monitor and prevent preterm labor whenever possible to give the baby the best start in life.