GynaePulse
Antenatal & maternal medicineFree in the app

Preterm labour & PPROM

Diagnosis, steroids, magnesium, tocolysis.

Source: NICE NG25

Diagnosis ≥30 wk

Cervical length≤15 mm = preterm labour likely.
Fetal fibronectin>50 ng/ml positive.
≤29+6 wkTreat on clinical suspicion.

Windows

SteroidsOffer 24+0–33+6; consider 34+0–35+6.
MgSO4Offer 24+0–29+6; consider 30+0–33+6.
NifedipineOffer 26+0–33+6; consider 24+0–25+6.

Prevention

  • Previous preterm birth/mid-trimester loss + cervix ≤25 mm at 16–24 wk: progesterone or cerclage
  • Vaginal progesterone from 16–24 wk to ≥34 wk
PPROM: erythromycin 250 mg QDS 10 days. No co-amoxiclav. No scalp electrode or FBS before 34 weeks.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.