Objective: To analyse the historical risk factors associated with preterm birth, and the potential benefit of correct prenatal care for prevention.
Methods: This prospective study was performed in 2011-12 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. I. Cantacuzino Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, and comprised women who gave birth at the hospital during the study period. The pregnancy was considered clinically cared if a pregnant woman underwent the following exams: first trimester ultrasound, maternal serum tests, screening tests, second trimester ultrasound, and amniocentesis if deemed necessary. The women with multiple pregnancies (twins or more) were excluded. Data collection was conducted according to the guidelines of the Mother and Child Health Research Network. IMB SPSS 21 was used for data analyses.
Results: Of the 4,078 cases, the prevalence of preterm births was 477(11.7%). Women giving birth to preterm babies had significantly less prenatal visits during pregnancy compared to women giving birth at term (p<0.05). High body mass index for 34-36 gestational weeks, a previous history of spontaneous abortion, a family history of preterm births and smoking were the most important risk factors for preterm birth (p<0.05 each).
Conclusions: The preterm delivery risk factors can be reduced at least partially by taking correct preventive measures during pregnancy.
Keywords: Preterm birth; Risk factors, Smoking, Body mass index, Prenatal care, Pregnancy follow-up..