Your pregnancy symptoms
If this is your first pregnancy, your baby will start moving down, getting ready to be born. You may feel more comfortable when this happens, and you'll probably also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen.
If this is not your first pregnancy, your baby may not move down until labour.
If you are carrying twins with their own placentas (dichorionic) and your pregnancy has been uncomplicated, you may now be offered an induction or caesarean section.
Find out more about giving birth to multiple babies.
Other symptoms
If you are at risk of giving birth early, it’s important to take care of yourself. There are also some things you can do to try and reduce the risk of giving birth early.
Tell your midwife or doctor if you have any symptoms that you are worried about. Do not worry if you've talked about it before and don't be concerned about whether you're wasting anyone's time. This is your pregnancy and it's important to trust your own instincts if you feel something isn't right.
You can also call the Tommy’s midwives on 0800 014 7800 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), or email us at [email protected].
Symptoms of early labour
Call your midwife or hospital maternity unit straight away if you think you are in early labour. It may be a false alarm, but it’s best to get checked out. Find out more about the symptoms of early labour.
Your mental health
If you have been told that you are at increased risk of giving birth early, it’s important to try and reduce stress and take care of your emotional health. Find out more about coping with the idea of a premature birth.
