Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG25/1

Question

Prophylactic cervical cerclage compared with prophylactic vaginal progesterone for preventing preterm birth:- What is the clinical effectiveness of prophylactic cervical cerclage alone compared with prophylactic vaginal progesterone alone and with both strategies together for preventing preterm birth in women with a short cervix and a history of spontaneous preterm birth?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- Preterm birth causes significant neonatal morbidity and mortality, as well as long-term disability. Therefore strategies for preventing preterm birth are important. There are recognised risk factors for preterm birth, and so interventions can be offered to women with these risk factors. Both prophylactic cervical cerclage and prophylactic vaginal progesterone are effective in preventing preterm birth in women with a short cervix and a history of preterm birth, but there is limited
evidence on which is more effective, and the relative risks and benefits (including costs) of each. More randomised research is needed to compare the relative effectiveness of prophylactic cervical cerclage and prophylactic vaginal progesterone in improving both neonatal and maternal outcomes. This will help women and healthcare professionals to make an informed decision about which is the most effective prophylactic option.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Preterm labour and birth

Number

NG25

Date issued

November 2015

Other details