What are the signs of preterm labor a nurse should educate patients about?

The signs of preterm labor include regular contractions, lower back pain, and changes in vaginal discharge. Regular contractions, typically occurring more than four times in an hour, indicate that the uterus is beginning to contract in a manner that may lead to early labor. Lower back pain is often a signal of uterine activity and can be a precursor to contractions. Additionally, changes in vaginal discharge, particularly if it becomes more watery, mucus-like, or bloody, can be a sign that the body is preparing for labor.

Understanding these signs is crucial for timely intervention, as recognizing preterm labor early can lead to measures that may prolong the pregnancy and improve outcomes for both the mother and baby. In contrast, options related to fatigue, increased appetite, weight gain, frequent urination, and heartburn do not specifically indicate preterm labor and are more commonly associated with typical changes and discomforts during pregnancy.