Predicting Preterm Birth Through Serial Transvaginal Cervical Length Measurements At 11–14 And 18–20 Weeks: A Prospective Observational Study In A Tertiary Care Center
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/ew2wj118Keywords:
Preterm birth, cervical length, transvaginal ultrasound, antenatal screening, pregnancy outcome, early predictionAbstract
Background:Preterm birth (PTB) remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early identification of women at risk is essential for timely intervention. Transvaginal ultrasonographic cervical length (CL) measurement has emerged as a reliable tool to predict spontaneous PTB, especially when conducted during routine antenatal scans.
Objectives:To assess the predictive value of cervical length measurements at 11–14 weeks and 18–20 weeks of gestation for preterm birth in pregnant women attending antenatal care at a tertiary care center.
Methods:This prospective observational study was conducted at [Insert College Name] on 150 pregnant women undergoing routine antenatal scans. Transvaginal ultrasound was used to measure cervical length at two time points: 11–14 weeks (NT scan) and 18–20 weeks (anomaly scan). Participants were followed until delivery, and pregnancy outcomes were recorded. Cervical length <25 mm and a reduction >1 cm between the two time points were analyzed as predictors of PTB.
Results:Among 150 participants, 22% experienced PTB. A cervical length <25 mm at 18–20 weeks was observed in 12% of women, of whom 83.3% delivered preterm. A reduction in cervical length >1 cm between the two scans was associated with a 71.4% PTB rate. Both findings were statistically significant (p<0.05).
Conclusions:Serial transvaginal ultrasound measurement of cervical length during the first and second trimesters is a simple, cost-effective, and reliable method to identify women at high risk of preterm birth. Integrating cervical length screening into routine antenatal care can improve early risk stratification and facilitate preventive interventions.
