Premature Labour

Question 1

What is preterm labour?

Answer 1

Onset of regular uterine contractions and cervical changes before 37 weeks gestation

Question 2

What is premature birth?

Answer 2

The delivery of a child after 20 weeks gestation but before 37 weeks gestation

Question 3

What is the main cause of preterm delivery?

Answer 3

Idiopathic

Question 4

What is the main screening tool used in preterm labour?

Answer 4

Foetal Fibronectin test (fFN test)

Question 5

What is Foetal Fibronectin test (fFN test) used to assess?

Answer 5

It is used to assess the risk of preterm delivery after the onset of preterm labour

Question 6

What are the main risk factors for preterm?

Answer 6

Overstretching of the uterus
Infection
Conditions which put the foetus at risk
Problems with the uterus or cervix

Question 7

What conditions that cause overstretching of the uterus can result in preterm labour?

Answer 7

Multiple pregnancies

Polyhydramnios

Question 8

What conditions could put the foetus at risk and cause preterm labour?

Answer 8

Pre-eclampsia

Placental abruption

Question 9

What problems with the uterus or cervix can cause preterm delivery?

Answer 9

Fibroids

Congenital uterine malformation