Prevention of preterm birth in multiples

Purpose of review

Multifetal pregnancy carries increased risk of preterm delivery, and consensus on management options to prevent early birth in this population has not been reached. This review serves to summarize the most contemporary findings on this controversial topic.

Recent findings

Examination-indicated cerclage is effective in reducing preterm birth in twin pregnancies, whereas cerclages for other indications are less convincing. Cervical pessary may be beneficial for patients with a short cervix and in those who have had threatened preterm labor. Progesterone supplementation for multifetal gestation alone is not beneficial, but it can be considered in those with a history of prior singleton preterm birth.

Summary

Interventions for preterm birth prevention in multiple gestations remain under investigation, and further data is required in order to reach consensus for this high-risk population.

Source: Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology - March 10, 2021 Category: OBGYN Tags: MATERNAL FETAL MEDICINE: Edited by Deirdre Lyell, Mark Boddy and Martha Rode Source Type: research