Progesterone: A Hope to Prevent Preterm Births & Reduce Perinatal Mortality

Objectives: To assess and compare the maintenance of tocolysis in preterm labor by using vaginal intramuscular progesterone. Study design: Randomized controlled trial. Settings study duration: Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, Civil Hospital, Bahawalpur between 12th March 2019 11th September Materials Methods: A total 96 women ranging from 18 40 years age presented with threatened labour, at gestational 28 to 36 weeks were included. Out total, Patients having multiple pregnancy, premature rupture membrane, medical disorders, IUGR APH excluded .All patients given acute tocolytic therapy oral nifedipine. Then they divided 2 groups. In Group A, progesterone (Cyclogest 200mg) was daily while group B patients, a single injection(IM) 250 mg 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17 OHP) weekly. All both groups evaluated upto delivery efficacy documented. Results: The mean 29.34 ± .4.92 years. 30.91 1.44 weeks. Efficacy ( no birth) seen 42 (87.50%) (vaginal progesterone) 34 (70.83%) (intramuscular p-value 0.044. Conclusion: verdict is that for preventing birth better than intramuscular. Keywords: progesterone, birth, perinatal mortality, hydroxyprogesterone, maintenance.