Randomized controlled trials of home uterine activity monitoring: a review and critique

Abstract

Home uterine activity monitoring has been proposed as an effective technique for reducing the incidence of preterm birth by early recognition of incipient labor. Five randomized controlled trials evaluating this technique have been published in peer review journals. As judged by accepted criteria for such trials, all have serious methodologic deficiencies. Four of the five trials demonstrated no significant benefit from this monitoring. Two other trials not published in peer review journals support the hypothesis that home uterine activity monitoring is no more effective than daily nursing contact. Until the efficacy of this technology has been established, home uterine activity monitoring should not be used clinically.