Can hormones prevent premature birth?

Premature birth is the biggest single cause of death and disability in babies. Recent studies suggest the hormone progesterone can cut the risk of preterm labour. By studying exactly how progesterone works, researchers hope to reveal better ways to stop babies being born too soon.

What's the problem and who does it affect?

The dangers of being born too soon

Around 50,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the UK. These babies, especially those born very prematurely, are more at risk of dying or becoming seriously ill. Premature birth can result in blindness, deafness, cerebral palsy and developmental delay - disabilities which can bring a lifetime of suffering.

Many premature babies must spend weeks or even months in hospital in intensive care, even when the outcome is good. Sadly, some anxious new parents find it hard to bond with their baby during this scary time.
Doctors lack understanding of how preterm labour starts

Some women, such as those having twins, are at high risk of giving birth too early. Yet, until recently, doctors had no way to prevent premature birth.

Recent studies suggest that treating pregnant women with the hormone progesterone can decrease their chances of going into labour early. But no-one knows how this treatment works.