Prenatal and perinatal management of preterm labour

Abstract

New knowledge of the pathophysiology of premature birth enables us to introduce new approaches in prenatal care as well as the management of premature delivery. These apply for the patients with subclinical risk factors, particularly with thrombophilias, chronic infections or other latent chronic infections. The peri- and pre-conceptional dispensarisation of these women might help reduce the development of premature delivery. Secondary prevention with the administration of gestagens is highly important for women with anamnestic or existing risk of premature delivery. During the underlying premature delivery, it is advisable to re-evaluate the significance of the administration of antibiotics and tocolytics as well as timing of corticoid dosage in the induction of foetal lung maturity. Using new diagnostic and therapeutic methods, the aim of present premature delivery management is to prolong the duration of pregnancy to the maximum with the lowest risk of the development of foetal inflammatory response possible and, therefore, with a low risk of long-term handicaps in children.