11 best ways to avoid premature labour naturally

Mummies, when you're pregnant, you already have a whole laundry list of things to worry about. So one of the last things you want to think about is premature labour. But it is essential to know how to prevent premature labour naturally so that a healthy baby can be born at full term.

This ensures less complications for both mother and baby during the delivery process and postpartum.

The term premature labour is when a woman delivers her baby before 37 weeks of gestational age. It is considered as full term when someone reaches week 37 during pregnancy where the baby is fully developed and able to thrive outside the mother's womb. Premature labour occurs when regular contractions result in the opening of the cervix between week 20 and week 37 of pregnancy.

However, sometimes women do have premature labour due to many different reasons and it often results in premature birth. Here are 11 best ways on how prevent premature labour naturally so that you can reach the goal of having a healthy baby and mother.

11 TIPS ON HOW TO PREVENT PREMATURE LABOUR NATURALLY

1. Speak to your doctor. If you've had a history of premature labour before, it is always best to tell your doctor because the risks are higher. Your doctor will be able to monitor you closely to make sure that you are given the best care.
2. Drink more water. Many often neglect the fact to drink more water during pregnancy. Dehydration can cause contractions that could lead to premature labour. Always stay hydrated.
3. Take your supplements. It is crucial for you to take good quality vitamins while you're pregnant to support the pregnancy so that you're getting all the nutrients you need. Nutrient deficiency can cause chemical imbalance in the body, leading to premature labour.
4. Watch your diet. The food you eat have direct impact on your body and baby. Unhealthy and imbalance diets could lead to pregnancy related conditions such as gestational diabetes that could cause premature labour. Increase probiotic bacteria (the "good" bacteria in your gut) by taking foods like natural yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir. These are excellent sources of probiotics which can reduce the colonisation of bad bacteria in the vagina.
5. Go for a walk. One of the best exercises you could do is walking. It keeps your heart pumping at a healthy rate and also improves blood circulation.
6. Do prenatal yoga. These classes are taught by experienced instructors who can help improve your flexibility and it is great for your blood circulation too.
7. Empty your bladder. Holding urine puts pressure on your abdomen that could inflame your bladder, lead to bacteria infection, and affects the uterus. It is always a good idea to use the bathroom often.
8. Avoid lying on your back. It is advised to lie on your left side while you sleep as it improves blood circulation. Lying on your back puts pressure on your spine and stretches the uterus.
9. Take warm baths. Warm baths at around 36 degree Celsius immediately calms the body and relaxes your muscles. This is a really great way to calm your uterus in the evenings when you're feeling tension.
10. Treat yourself. Go for a pregnancy massage or a day in a spa. It is good for the body and the mind to relax as it takes away stress.
11. Listen to your body. Don't do strenuous activities that puts pressure on your abdomen and causes you great fatigue. Make sure you have adequate rest and allow your body to adjust during pregnancy.

This article was first published in theAsianParent.