This guideline focuses on improving maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with preterm birth and specifically includes both the care of pregnant women at imminent risk of preterm birth (birth < 37 weeks of gestation). Women at imminent risk of preterm birth were defined as pregnant women who are very likely to deliver a preterm baby either as a result of onset of spontaneous preterm Labor, preterm Prelabor rupture of membranes or elective (or indicated) preterm birth. The guideline scope does not include preventive care for non-pregnant or pregnant women with previous history of preterm birth or other known risk factors of preterm birth.
The objectives of this guideline are:
- To provide guidance for the proper prevention and management of preterm labor
- To optimize outcomes for patients who are at risk of or developed preterm labor