Spontaneous preterm labour that leads to preterm birth: An update and personal reflection

Abstract Objective The objective was to provide an update of progress made over time (including personal reflection) of our attempts to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with spontaneous preterm labour that leads to preterm birth. Methods An experienced and evidence based approach was taken to provide an overview of progress made over a generation (∼40 years) in our understanding of spontaneous preterm labour. Results It is evident that we have made significant progress in our understanding of the aetiology, the measurement of the burden, the basic science, systems biology and mechanical pathways of the preterm parturition syndrome. We have better ways of predicting, preventing and managing spontaneous preterm labour than existed a generation ago. Conclusions The profile of spontaneous preterm labour that leads to preterm birth, thanks to organisations such as the March of Dimes, WHO and PREBIC is much more evident than before. However, while we have come a long way, we must not be complacent, and clinicians and basic scientists must continue to work in harmony, while recruiting and encouraging young investigators to join the effort to improve survival and handicap in what is one of the Great Obstetric Syndromes.