Naturally Stopping and Managing Premature Labor

It Can Usually Be Halted at Home

Premature labor is also known as pre-term labor. When a baby is born prior to 37 weeks, he or she faces significant challenges throughout life as a result. It is especially dangerous for a baby to be born before the second trimester has passed. Some women are at high risk for premature labor, but it can strike anyone anytime. Doctors still aren't fully aware of what causes preterm labor. All they can do is try to manage it and postpone the pregnancy as long as possible.

If you suspect you are going into labor prematurely, the first thing you should do is drink an 8oz glass of water and lay down. Dehydration can cause premature labor, and activity encourages labor to strengthen. Most of the time, laying down and relaxing while taking in fluids will stop premature labor. You should stay well-hydrated and well-rested at least for a few weeks until the threat has passed. This will keep your uterus relaxed.

Your doctor may recommend that you go on bedrest if you are high risk for or are threatening to go into labor prematurely. He will stress the importance of staying off your feet and staying hydrated. If he advises you to do this, take it seriously. Get up only to use the washroom. This may be difficult to arrange, but it is well worth it. If you don't have a friend or husband who can stay home to help you and care for the kids, there are doulas who cater to the needs of women on bedrest. Staying in bed can help keep premature labor at bay.

Alcohol can also help halt preterm labor. Some doctors and midwives advise that women have a glass of wine, rather than water, and lay down. Alcohol is a depressant that relaxes the body and thus the uterus. It has been proven to help stop and prevent premature labor. This mild use of alcohol is unlikely to cause fetal defects. Studies have shown that using alcohol to stop premature labor does not cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Pace yourself. Have a glass of wine, and wait about half an hour. If labor continues, have another glass--or even a shot of whiskey. Stay off of your feet. This should work within a few hours, but there's no guarantee.