Progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth: a narrative review

Preterm birth is the main cause of perinatal mortality in the world. Despite interventions, preterm rates keep rising. Several studies have assessed the utility of progesterone as a preventive intervention in high risk patients. This narrative review aims to assess the current evidence regarding prevention of preterm birth with progesterone. A search in different databases between 2000 - 2015 of clinical trial studies, meta–analysis and clinical practice guidelines was conducted. Mesh terminology was used. Relevance of studies was determined by using PRISMA and CONSORT checklists, and quality of evidence was established according to the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care criteria. 32141 studies were found, 17 were included for this review. Meta–analysis: 2, clinical trials: 8, systematic reviews: 2, secondary analysis of clinical trials: 2, decision analysis: 1, clinical practice guidelines: 2. It was concluded that progesterone, when used in single pregnancy in high risk patients (cervicometr