New blood test may help predict pre-term birth

Researchers are working on a blood test that could be able to detect risk of spontaneous pre-term delivery.
According to a study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, five micro particle proteins found in first-trimester blood samples may give clues about the risk of spontaneous pre-term birth.
“Our goal is to develop prognostic markers for patients to help make predictions and offer highly personalised care to woman from early stages of pregnancy,” said co-author Thomas McElrath from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in the US.
According to researchers, nearly 10 per cent births are taking place before 37-week gestation against the normal 40 weeks. Pre-term birth can result in several conditions, including pre-term labour, early rupture of the placental membrane or preeclampsia.
Mothers with history of pre-term deliveries face higher risks. But predicting spontaneous pre-term birth is challenging, particularly in the case of first-time mothers, the team said. (IANS)