Which of the following is a sign of preterm labor?

Prepare for the Lippincott Antepartal Care Exam with in-depth study materials, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Enhance your knowledge and be ready for success!

Regular contractions are a key sign of preterm labor. During preterm labor, a pregnant individual may begin to experience uterine contractions that occur at regular intervals, usually before the 37th week of gestation. These contractions can lead to changes in the cervix, which can ultimately result in preterm birth if not addressed. It's crucial for expectant mothers to recognize these contractions as they may indicate that labor is beginning earlier than expected.

In contrast, frequent fetal movement is generally a sign that the fetus is active and healthy, not necessarily indicative of preterm labor. Decreased appetite and fatigue, while they can be associated with pregnancy, do not specifically signal preterm labor either. Instead, they can result from various factors related to pregnancy, such as hormonal changes or physical discomfort, but they do not reflect the onset of labor. Understanding these signs can significantly impact pregnancy management and outcomes.

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