Prediction of preterm labour in multiple pregnancies

Abstract

Various methods of predicting preterm labour in both singleton and multiple pregnancies have been studied including risk scoring systems, home uterine activity monitoring, cervical assessment and biochemical methods. In practice, risk scoring systems for preterm delivery perform poorly. Consensus in the literature regarding the usefulness of home uterine activity monitoring is lacking and well designed randomized controlled trials are required. Transvaginal ultrasound assessment of the cervix appears to have a role to play in the prediction of preterm labour. The presence of IFN in cervicovaginal fluid in the late second and early third trimesters is an important risk factor for preterm labo..