title: Role of progestogens for the prevention of premature birth.
abstract: Premature birth represents a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. The short- and long-term sequelae of prematurity have serious consequences for newborn survival and health in later life. In addition, prematurity is a major problem with regard to health expenditure. Despite major progress in obstetrics, perinatology and neonatology, the percentage of premature birth persists and there is even a tendency towards a slight increase. Therefore, besides screening programmes for the detection of vaginal infections, additional therapeutic opportunities must be sought. According to previously published data, vaginal progesterone and intramuscular 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate should be considered possible treatment options for the prevention of preterm delivery.
authors.affiliation: Institut für Medizinische Forschung und Fortbildung, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45147 Essen, Germany. schindler@uni-essen.de
authors.forename: Adolf E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Schindler
mesh_terms: D000077713:17 alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate; D006907:17-alpha-Hydroxypregnenolone / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006908:Hydroxyprogesterones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011372:Progestins / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014599:Uterus / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D006908:Hydroxyprogesterones; D011372:Progestins; D000077713:17 alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate; D006907:17-alpha-Hydroxypregnenolone