Supplemental progesterone appears to be effective in reducing preterm birth in the appropriate patient. For women with a singleton pregnancy who have had a previous spontaneous singleton preterm birth, we suggest progesterone treatment via weekly intramuscular injections of hydroxy progesterone caproate (17-hydroxyprogesterone or 17-OHP). Injections begin in the second trimester (16 to 20 weeks) and continue through the 36th week of gestation and reduce preterm birth by up to 33%..
We have developed the following patient questionnaire to serve as a guide in determining if a patient should be considered for 17-OH Progesterone Therapy. Please feel free to call our office.