Context

Preterm birth is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality and a major source of healthcare costs. Despite advances in obstetrical care, the incidence of preterm birth is at an all-time high and may be rising due to increasing rates of advancing maternal age, maternal medical conditions, assisted reproductive technology and multiple gestations.1 Prevention of preterm birth and its associated neonatal morbidity and mortality are major concerns and a significant focus for obstetrical research. Tocolytics have not been shown to decrease the risk for preterm birth, but they have been associated with a short-term delay in delivery. Therefore, the primary goal of tocolysis is to allow administration of glucocorticoids in order to reduce the risk …