The relationship between obstetrical interventions and the increase in U.S. preterm births, 2014-2019

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth remains a significant concern due to associated infant morbidity and mortality.
• Understanding trends in obstetrical interventions is crucial for optimizing perinatal care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the relationship between obstetrical interventions and preterm birth in the United States between 2014 and 2019.
• To assess changes in rates of preterm birth, cesarean delivery, and labor induction.
• To evaluate the impact of these interventions on preterm birth outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Observational study utilizing US birth data from 2014-2019.
• Logistic regression analysis to model the odds of preterm obstetrical intervention.
• Risk adjustment for demographic and medical factors.

Main Results:

• Singleton preterm births increased by 9.4% from 2014-2019.
• Cesarean deliveries for preterm births rose by 6.0%, and labor inductions by 39.1%.
• Preterm obstetrical interventions increased by 13% overall and 17% for late preterm births, with higher rates among Non-Hispanic Black women.

Conclusions:

• There has been a concerning rise in obstetrical interventions for preterm births.
• Evidence-based practices for interventions are needed to ensure optimal maternal and infant outcomes.
• Further research into preterm birth trends and intervention impacts is warranted.