For a woman who is 24 weeks pregnant, experiencing abdominal tightening and shortness of breath can indicate uterine contractions, which pose a potential risk of preterm birth. However, these symptoms alone are not sufficient for a precise diagnosis, making a prompt medical examination essential.

If abdominal pain accompanies the contractions, it could signal threatened preterm labor. To diagnose this risk, doctors typically perform a biochemical test to detect fetal Fibronectin—a safe, simple, and effective method for preterm birth screening. This is combined with measuring cervical length.

ThS.BS.CKI Tran Lam Khoa advises pregnant women on preterm birth risk screening. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

If the frequency of contractions, cervical length, or a positive Fibronectin test result indicates a high risk, doctors recommend hospitalization to identify potential causes of threatened preterm birth. Approximately 50% of cases have no clear cause, but for the remaining 50%, appropriate treatment can extend the pregnancy as much as possible.

If prolonging the pregnancy is not feasible, doctors may administer medication to support fetal lung maturation. This helps reduce the incidence of respiratory distress and delayed lung fluid absorption in preterm infants. If delivery is anticipated within the next 24 hours, magnesium sulfate may also be administered to protect the baby's brain.

With its multidisciplinary model, Tam Anh General Hospital intervenes and provides timely care for many high-risk pregnancies and extremely preterm infants, from the womb through to after birth. Therefore, if you are experiencing these symptoms, you should visit the hospital immediately for an assessment and risk stratification.

ThS.BS.CKI Tran Lam Khoa

Obstetrics and Gynecology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM

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