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A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to have preterm labor with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of having preterm labor. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for preterm labor include:
References:
Preterm labor. March of Dimes website. Available at: http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/188_1080.asp . Accessed September 22, 2005.
Preterm labor. University of Michigan Health System website. Available at: http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/wha/wha_ptl_crs.htm . Accessed September 23, 2005.
A primer on preemies. American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.kidshealth.org/PageManager.jsp?dn=familydoctor&lic=44&cat_id=20056&article_set=21879&ps=104 . Accessed September 23, 2005.
Research on preterm labor and premature birth. National Institute of Child Health & Human Development website. Available at: http://www.nichd.nih.gov/womenshealth/premature_birth.cfm . Accessed September 27, 2005.
Weismiller DG. Preterm labor. American Family Physician. February 1, 1999. American Family Physician website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/afp/990201ap/593.html . Accessed September 26, 2005.
Last reviewed June 2007 by Jeff Andrews, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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