After how many weeks of gestation is the likelihood of preterm labor notably increased?

The likelihood of preterm labor significantly increases after 28 weeks of gestation. Before this point, while preterm labor can still occur, the risk is not as pronounced as it becomes after 28 weeks. Research indicates that factors contributing to preterm labor—such as cervical insufficiency, infections, and multiple gestations—become more concerning as the pregnancy progresses beyond this mark.

When gestation reaches 28 weeks, the fetus reaches a critical point in its development, and the body has undergone enough physiological changes that can lead to increased uterine irritability and contractions. This is also the period when healthcare providers start monitoring for signs of preterm labor more closely, as the risks of complications for both the mother and the baby begin to heighten.

This emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of preterm labor during this timeframe, allowing for appropriate interventions to support both maternal and fetal health.