Predisposing Factors Precipitating Factors

-congenital uterine or cervical -dehydration

abnormalities -habitual abortion
-genetics -lifestyle
-age -multiple gestation
-race (african-american) -inadequate prenatal care
-smoking
-substance abuse
-chorioamnionitis
-stress

Uterine contraction
before end of 37th
week of gestation

Bleeding persistent pelvic Preterm Vaginal Increased

backache pressure birth spotting vaginal
discharge

Primary
neonatal
complications