A baby born before 37 weeks gestation is considered premature. Every year, fifteen million babies are born prematurely throughout the world. Many of these babies end up having health issues, and one million of them die from being born too early. These are scary statistics, but being aware of the signs of preterm labor can help give your baby the best chance possible at surviving and even thriving after a premature birth. Here are four signs you may be going into preterm labor.

You're Having Contractions

One sure way to know if you're having contractions is your abdomen becomes hard. In between contractions, the abdomen will become soft when the uterus relaxes. Contractions usually cause some discomfort and can include feeling a dull ache in the lower back or pressure in the pelvis area.

You Feel Cramping in Your Lower Abdomen

If you are going into preterm labor, you may feel cramps that are similar to the ones you have during your menstrual cycle. The cramps may either be continuous or they may come and go. Sometimes this type of cramping can feel like gas pains.

You're Experiencing Unusual Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is usually normal but there are times it can be a warning sign, including during preterm labor. Here are some specific things to look for when it comes to experiencing unusual vaginal discharge:

• There is a change in the consistency of the discharge
• There is an increased amount of discharge
• The discharge is pink or brown which could indicate bleeding

Anytime there is itching or burning associated with vaginal discharge, it could indicate an infection, which could be detrimental to your unborn baby.

You're Experiencing Flu-Like Symptoms

If you are feeling nauseous, are vomiting, have diarrhea, have a fever, or are experiencing any other type of flu-like symptom, you may be going into preterm labor.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor. If you are going into preterm labor, certain kinds of treatment such as bed rest, hydration, and certain medications can stop it.

If labor cannot be stopped and you live in a relatively rural area, you may need to be transported to a larger community that has a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) so that your premature baby can be properly cared for. In cases where your health, or the baby's health is in danger, an air ambulance ride may be necessary.