Assessment of Cervical Length by Transvaginal Ultrasound in Pregnant Women Between 24-34 Weeks

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of cervical length measurement by transvaginal ultrasound for predicting preterm delivery. Methods: Cervical lengths were measured by transvaginal ultrasound in 73 pregnant women with 24-34 weeks of gestation. Cervical length measurements were analyzed for the predictability of preterm birth. Results: Of the 73 pregnant women, 19 (26%) had preterm labor (<37 weeks) and 54 (74%) had term labor. For predicting preterm birth, cut-off values were determined using the Receive Operating Characteristic Curve curves and corresponding values. The cut-off value of the cervical length was 31.5 millimeters and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 70.3%, 89.4%, 51.5% and 95%, respectively. Conclusion: According to the study, the evaluation of cervical length by transvaginal ultrasound in pregnant women with 24-34 weeks of gestation may be useful as a screening test for preterm birth prediction. The risk of premature birth in pregnant women with a cervical length more than 31 mm is minimal.