Uterocervical Angle in Prediction of Preterm Labor

Preterm delivery occurs in about 5-18% of pregnancies before 37 weeks' gestation all over the world.It is associated with a high prevalence of neurological deficits, developmental disabilities and is a leading cause of infant and neonatal mortality.Many of the methods used for predicting preterm birth has not been proven efficacy and is not currently recommended for use.The length of the cervix has been one of the most useful methods in predicting the risk of premature delivery. Detection rates may be improved if combined with other parameters such as the uterocervical angle as a new predictor of spontaneous preterm birth.In this study we will compare between using the uterocervical angle and cervical length in the prediction of preterm labour.

Inclusion Criteria:Singleton pregnancyHistory of spontaneous preterm birthRecruitment at 16 to 24 weeks of pregnancyNormal growth pattern evaluated by estimated fetal weight or abdominal circumferenceExclusion Criteria:Medical disorders which can lead to uteroplacental insufficiencyCongenital uterine anomalies, as it may change the uterocervical angle.Congenital fetal malformations detected on midtrimesteric anomaly scanPregnancy on IVF/ICSISmoking during pregnancyHistory of cervical traumaPreterm prelabor rupture of the membranesPolyhydramniosCervical cerclageAntepartum hemorrhage