How is preterm labor defined in terms of gestational weeks?

Preterm labor is defined as labor that occurs before 37 completed weeks of gestation. This definition is based on the understanding that a full-term pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks. Deliveries that occur between 20 weeks and 36 weeks and 6 days are termed preterm deliveries, which can lead to various health challenges for the newborn. Thus, recognizing the threshold of 37 weeks as the demarcation between preterm and term pregnancies is crucial in obstetric care. This classification helps healthcare providers identify at-risk patients for preterm birth and take appropriate measures to support the pregnancy and health of both the mother and the baby.