What are the causes of no contractions in late pregnancy?

Jul 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, the absence of uterine contractions in the late stages of pregnancy may be caused by factors such as insufficient gestational age, low uterine sensitivity, hormonal imbalances, uterine abnormalities, or fetal intrauterine growth restriction. If any abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and examination at a正规 hospital. In daily life, pregnant women should maintain a positive mindset, avoid excessive anxiety, and pay attention to maintaining a balanced diet.

Generally, the absence of uterine contractions in the late stages of pregnancy may be caused by factors such as insufficient gestational age, low uterine sensitivity, hormonal secretion abnormalities, uterine malformations, or fetal intrauterine growth restriction. If abnormal conditions occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and examination at a formal hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Insufficient Gestational Age

The late stages of pregnancy typically refer to week 28 of gestation and beyond. If the expected due date hasn't approached yet, the uterus may not have received sufficient signals to initiate labor, and thus contractions may not occur. This situation is considered a normal physiological phenomenon and requires no special treatment.

2. Low Individual Uterine Sensitivity

Uterine sensitivity to hormones such as oxytocin varies among pregnant women. Some women's uterine muscles may respond sluggishly to stimuli, and even in the later stages of pregnancy, there may be no obvious contractions. Under a doctor's guidance and if physical conditions allow, pregnant women can appropriately increase their daily activity levels.

3. Hormonal Secretion Abnormalities

Insufficient or imbalanced secretion of hormones related to contractions, such as oxytocin and prostaglandins, in the pregnant woman's body may affect the initiation of uterine contractions, leading to the absence of contractions in late pregnancy. After medical evaluation, the specific hormone deficiency should be identified. If hormone supplementation is needed, medications such as oxytocin injection, dinoprostone suppository, or misoprostol tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

4. Uterine Malformations

Uterine malformations such as uterine septum or bicornuate uterus may affect the normal structure and contraction function of the uterus, making contractions difficult to generate or less noticeable. The specific type of uterine malformation should be determined through ultrasound and other examinations. Regular prenatal checkups are necessary to closely monitor the fetus's intrauterine growth and development as well as the condition of the uterus. If necessary, delivery plans should be made in advance.

5. Fetal Intrauterine Growth Restriction

When fetal growth and development are delayed in the uterus, the fetus may not exert sufficient pressure on the uterus to stimulate contractions. Additionally, the fetal condition itself may affect the maternal signals for labor, leading to an absence of contractions in late pregnancy. Under a physician's guidance, the cause of the growth delay should be identified. If poor placental function is responsible, medications such as coenzyme A for injection, adenosine disodium triphosphate injection, or compound amino acid injection may be used to provide nutritional support to the fetus.

In daily life, pregnant women should maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive anxiety; ensure a balanced diet with adequate protein and vitamin intake; and attend regular prenatal checkups to stay informed about their own and the fetus's health status.