Preterm Birth-Part 3: Management Options

Course overview

The preterm birth (PTB) rate in the United States is one of the worst in the world. Of approximately 3.6 - 3.7 million babies born annually, 10.4% are born prematurely. Of the 10.4% of births occurring before term, half are preceded by preterm labor. It is clear that PTB is one of the most challenging issues in perinatal medicine today. Diagnosing and successfully abolishing preterm labor (PTL) is exceptionally challenging. Knowledge and practice gaps exist as the US preterm birth rates show little improvement. Knowing which evidence-based strategies are recommended and then administering them in a timely manner is the best solution if malpractice risk is to be averted. This is Part 3 of a 3-part series. The focus of this activity is the maternal benefits of preterm labor management that is supported by perinatal professional organizations evidence-based guidelines.