Premature birth

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When to seek medical advice

By Mayo Clinic staff

Proper prenatal care can help you prevent preterm labor and premature birth. If you're at risk of preterm labor or premature birth, your health care provider may recommend more frequent visits.

If you develop any signs or symptoms of preterm labor — such as a watery vaginal discharge or regular contractions that occur more than eight times an hour — contact your health care provider or hospital right away. It's a good idea to keep these phone numbers handy so that you can find them quickly.

DS00137

May 23, 2009

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