NHS Suffolk and North East Essex - Labour and Birth Booklet

18 Sometimes, you may develop a complication during your pregnancy and your healthcare professional may recommend preterm delivery. Examples of conditions that may require preterm delivery include: • moderate to severe pre-eclampsia (a pregnancy condition causing high blood pressure which can also affect some of your internal organs) • poorly controlled diabetes • intrauterine growth restriction (when your baby’s growth slows down or stops) • if your waters break early and you are developing an infection • other medical complications of pregnancy. Women who are considered to be at risk of starting labour prematurely may be offered treatment to maintain the pregnancy for as long as safely possible.