Role of Salivary Progesterone In Prediction of Preterm Labour

Abstract

The saliva progesterone concentrations are rising up althrough pregnancy in both groups of preterm and full term labour. • The saliva progesterone concentrations in the women with preterm delivery were significantly lower than those of the term group from 26 -35 weeks by approximately 34% (P<0.001). • A cutoff of 1600 pg/ml generated optimal sensitivity and specificity; Sensitivity 100%, specificity 98% PPV 98%, NPV 100%, diagnostic accuracy of 99%. • So a salivary progesterone level less than 1600 pg/ml is a predictor for preterm delivery (all preterm cases did not reach 1600 pg/mllevel). • There was no statistical significant difference between preterm and full term groups as regards the mean maternal age, deliveries, abortions (P>0.05). • There was a positive correlation between cervical length and salivary progesterone level among preterm group (strong association) P<0.05 but this relation was not found among full term group P>0.05.