Podcast: Preventing Preterm Birth

Debra: From the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, I’m Debra James with Healthcare 411. Information for better health.

Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are considered preterm and face a risk of complications as a result. And while preterm births are not uncommon in the United States, they can be prevented with certain hormones. A free publication by AHRQ explains more.

AHRQ expert Beth Collins Sharp:

Beth: If you’ve had a previous preterm birth, hormones called progestogens can help you stay pregnant. There are two forms of these hormones: a natural kind made in your body and a synthetic kind called progestin. AHRQ’s brochure includes several questions and topics to consider – such as the benefits of taking progestin to prevent preterm birth – to help you and your health care provider choose the best treatment option for you.

Debra: To get the free publication, Progestogens to Prevent Preterm Birth, call 1-800-358-9295. Healthcare 411 is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.