Symptoms of preterm labor are warning signs. They don't necessarily mean that you'll have a preterm birth.

If you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and you're having more or stronger contractions than usual, try this:

• Drink 2 or 3 glasses of water or juice. Not having enough liquids can cause contractions.
• Stop what you are doing, and empty your bladder. Then lie down on your left side for at least 1 hour.
• If your contractions get worse during the hour, call your doctor or nurse-midwife, or go to the hospital.
• Try to remember what you were doing when the symptoms started so that you can avoid starting the contractions again later.

Although stress isn't thought to be a direct cause of preterm labor, do what you can to reduce stress in your life for your own good. Try to do less, ask for help, and eat well.

Bed rest

Strict bed rest is no longer used to prevent preterm labor. But your doctor may recommend expectant management, which may involve some bed rest.