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Case 20 - A Patient with Regular Painful Uterine Contractions at 32 Weeks

from Section 3 - Antepartum (Late Pregnancy)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 April 2025

Peter F. Schnatz
Affiliation:
The Reading Hospital, Pennsylvania
D. Yvette LaCoursiere
Affiliation:
University of California, San Diego
Christopher M. Morosky
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Jonathan Schaffir
Affiliation:
The Ohio State University College of Medicine
Vanessa Torbenson
Affiliation:
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
David Chelmow
Affiliation:
Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine
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Summary

Preterm labor, marked by cervical changes between 20 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks’ gestation, is a significant contributor to preterm birth, accounting for 50% of such cases and is associated with increased neonatal mortality and long-term health issues. Understanding preterm labor involves considering diverse factors, including maternal medical history, demographics, and current pregnancy characteristics. Modifiable risk factors such as short interpregnancy intervals and substance use play a role in its onset. Diagnostic tools like transvaginal ultrasonography and fetal fibronectin aid in identifying at-risk individuals. Effective management of preterm labor is a pivotal aspect of obstetric care. Tocolytics, antenatal corticosteroids, and group B streptococcus prophylaxis are integral interventions. Decisions about the mode of delivery include the potential benefits of cesarean delivery in extreme prematurity. This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring, timely diagnosis, and intervention in addressing preterm labor, thereby mitigating its adverse effects on maternal and neonatal health.

Type
Chapter
Information
Pregnancy Complications
A Case-Based Approach
, pp. 61 - 64
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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References

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