Antibiotics and preterm labor.
Prematurity is a profound obstetric problem and to date no effective treatment or prevention strategies have been found. Many animal and clinical data exist to link infection and preterm labor, yet clinical trials examining the effect of antibiotic treatment in patients with patterns labor and intact membranes have been conflicting and disappointing. Beyond treatment to reduce neonatal group B streptococcal infection, sexually transmitted infections, symptomatic bacterial vaginosis, and bacteriuria, no clinical data exist at this time to support the routine use of antibiotics in patients with preterm labor and intact membranes.
Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA. hmertz@wfubmc.edu
H L
HL
Mertz
J M
JM
Ernest
D000653:Amniotic Fluid / Q000382:microbiology; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000139:chemically induced*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000382:microbiology*; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents