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Published on: August 13, 2019
Novel developments on cervical length screening and progesterone for preventing preterm birth
1Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. vincenzo.berghella@jefferson.edu
BJOG : an International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Transvaginal ultrasound measurement of cervical length (CL) effectively screens for preterm birth (PTB). Early interventions, like cerclage or progesterone, are proven effective in preventing PTB when indicated by CL screening.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Preterm birth (PTB) is a significant global health concern.
- Effective screening methods are crucial for PTB prevention.
- Cervical length (CL) measurement is a potential screening tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cervical length (CL) measured by transvaginal ultrasound as a screening test for preterm birth (PTB).
- To assess if CL meets the criteria for an effective screening test.
- To highlight the role of early interventions in PTB prevention.
Main Methods:
- Transvaginal ultrasound to measure cervical length (CL).
- Evaluation of CL against established screening test criteria.
- Review of existing literature on CL, PTB, and interventions.
Main Results:
- Cervical length (CL) measurement meets all criteria for an effective screening test for PTB.
- CL screening identifies an early, asymptomatic phase preceding PTB.
- The technique is safe, reproducible, and predictive across populations.
Conclusions:
- Transvaginal ultrasound measurement of CL is a validated and effective screening tool for PTB.
- Early interventions, such as ultrasound-indicated cerclage and vaginal progesterone, are effective in preventing PTB in selected populations.
- CL screening facilitates timely and effective PTB prevention strategies.
