Initial cervical dilation and the association of the success of atosiban

Abstract

Preterm birth is defined as delivery at less than 37 weeks gestation and is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality.1 Preterm birth (birth occurring before 37 weeks of gestation) is a global public health challenge, with 15 million infants born preterm every year and an estimated 35% of deaths in the first 4 weeks of life are directly attributable to prematurity.2 In 2013, preterm birth complications were the leading cause of death of the estimated 6.3 million liveborn children worldwide; Thus, research studies have been focused on identifying the best method to prevent preterm birth.3 Atosiban, an oxytocin receptor blocker which has been used in our institute, in cases of suspected preterm labor for thirteen years. This research aims at studying Atosiban efficacy in terms of prolongation of pregnancy taking the initial cervical dilation (upon admission) is the principle factor.