Preterm labor without delivery, second trimester

This code signifies the onset of regular uterine contractions causing cervical changes (effacement or dilation) before 37 completed weeks of gestation, specifically occurring during the second trimester (weeks 14 through 27+6 days), without the actual birth of the infant. It indicates that labor has begun prematurely but has been arrested or has not progressed to delivery.

Assign this code when a pregnant patient in her second trimester presents with documented preterm labor that does not result in delivery during the encounter or admission. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing uterine contractions, cervical changes, and the gestational age at the time of presentation, confirming that delivery did not occur.

• Do not use this code if delivery occurs; instead, refer to codes for preterm delivery.
• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies the second trimester; otherwise, consider codes for unspecified trimester or other trimesters.
• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.