What methods do not work to prevent preterm labor?
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Researchers have found that some methods for trying to stop preterm labor are not as effective as once thought. These include:
- Home uterine monitors1
- Routine screening of all asymptomatic women for bacterial vaginosis (Trichomonas vaginalis) infection.2 Routine screening and treatment with antibiotics did not reduce preterm birth; in fact, the latter increased the risk of preterm birth.2
- Iams, J. D., Newman, R. B., Thom, E. A., Goldenberg, R. L., Mueller-Heubach, E., Moawad, A., et al. (2002). Frequency of uterine contractions and the risk of spontaneous preterm delivery. New England Journal of Medicine, 346, 250–255. [top]
- Carey, J. C., Klebanoff, M. A., Hauth, J. C., Hillier, S. L., Thom, E. A., Ernest, J. M., et al. (2000). Metronidazole to prevent preterm delivery in pregnant women with asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis.New England Journal of Medicine, 342, 534–540. [top]
Last Updated Date: 11/30/2012
Last Reviewed Date: 11/30/2012