Final answer:
Spontaneous preterm birth is the delivery of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation without medical intervention. Risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth include prior preterm birth, multiple pregnancies, uterine or cervical abnormalities, infections, and smoking/substance abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spontaneous preterm birth is the delivery of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation without medical intervention. There are several risk factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth. These include:
- Prior preterm birth: Women who have previously had a preterm birth are at a higher risk of experiencing another preterm birth.
- Multiple pregnancies: Women carrying twins, triplets, or other multiples are more likely to have a spontaneous preterm birth.
- Uterine or cervical abnormalities: Conditions such as an incompetent cervix or uterine fibroids can increase the risk of preterm birth.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections or bacterial vaginosis, can increase the risk of preterm birth.
- Smoking and substance abuse: Smoking and using drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm birth.