The Value of Cervical Length Measurement at 10-15 and 20-25 Weeks to Predict Preterm Birth

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to predict the risks of preterm labor by measuring the cervical length between 10 and 15 weeks gestation and between 20 and 25 weeks gestation, in low risk pregnants. Methods: Our study group was formed in the outpatient clinic of the Ministry of Health Istanbul Education and Research Hospital with 118 pregnants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria and wished to attend our study during routine antenatal screening. Delivery before 37 weeks gestation constituted the preterm labor group, delivery after 37 weeks gestation constituted the term group. Multiple pregnancies, previous preterm delivery, chronic diseases, history of preterm labor, previously diagnosed uterine abnormalities and fetal anomalies were stated as exclusion criteria. Results: In our study pregnant patients who delivered after 37 weeks gestation constituted 88.99% (n: 105) of the study group, whereas 11.01% (n: 13) pregnant patients delivered before 37 weeks gestation. Cervical length measurements in both 10-15 weeks and 20-25 weeks were significantly higher in the term group (p<0.01, p<0.001). Cut off value of cervical length for preterm labor was found as 41.4 among 10 to 15 gestation weeks and 33.7 among 20 to 25 gestation weeks. Conclusion: Transvaginal sonography performed at 20 to 25 gestational weeks has an impressive role when screening asymptomatic pregnants and defining the risks. We need more studies to decide whether to begin earlier screening or not for preterm labor when an individual has a poor obstetric history and is under such risks.