Early term labors: approach principles at 37-39 weeks of gestation

By bringing up the idea for discussion that fetal maturity is reached as of 37 weeks of gestation, the period covering 37+0/7 up to 38+6/7 weeks of gestation was defined as “early term”. Morbidity and mortality rates are higher in infants born at early term than those born at 39-40 weeks of gestation. The mortality rates of those born at early term may also increase at early childhood and young adulthood. In this regard, labor induction or cesarean labor without any medical foundation at 37-39 weeks of gestation should be avoided. Since maintaining pregnancy in the presence of some complications may increase serious risks such as bleeding, uterine rupture, stillbirth or similar risks, it may be appropriate to plan and carry out the labor before 39 weeks of gestation. In the current review, the significant ones of such cases have been discussed.