Current options of prediction of preterm labour.

OBJECTIVE

A summary of current possibilities to adequately determine spontaneous preterm labour.

DESIGN

Review.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Faculty of Medicine and General Teaching Hospital, Charles University in Prague.

METHODS

Research of literature and current studies.

CONCLUSION

Based on the combination of personal medical history, clinical signs, biomarkers and transvaginal ultrasonographic measurement of cervical length, it is possible to predict preterm labour. To avoid a major prediction miscalculation, it is necessary to understand and correctly evaluate certain clinical findings. This approach decreases redundant medical intervention and therefore leads to amelioration of perinatal outcome.