Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Fetal Adrenal Gland in Cases of Threatened Preterm Labor

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Fetal Adrenal Gland in Cases of Threatened Preterm Labor

Preterm birth continues to be a major public health problem with lasting family and societal repercussions. Despite tremendous research effort, prevention strategies have failed, and the prevalence of preterm birth in the United States reached 12.3% in 2003.

Prematurity causes 70% of fetal/neonatal deaths. 11.4% of births are at < 37 weeks' gestation. The rate of prematurity increases dramatically with the number of fetuses - singletons 10%; twins 54.9%; and triplets 93.6%

Inclusion Criteria:

1. singleton fetus less than 37 weeks of gestation

2. women diagnosed to having Threatened preterm labor.

   1. presence of uterine contraction (at least 4 in 20 min or 8 in 60 min )
   2. cervical effacement <80 %
   3. cervical dilatation <1 cm

Exclusion Criteria:

1. suspected fetal growth restriction,
2. maternal medical complications,
3. presence of fetal heart rate abnormalities at enrollment.
4. Preterm Premature rupture of membranes
5. Placenta previa
6. Lower urinary tract infection or genital infection
7. Fetal congenital anomaly