What percentage of women in the United States who go into preterm labor actually deliver preterm?

The correct response indicates that approximately 10% of women who experience preterm labor ultimately deliver preterm. This statistic is essential in understanding the relationship between preterm labor and actual delivery outcomes. Preterm labor refers to the onset of labor before 37 weeks of gestation. While many women may experience signs or symptoms of preterm labor, not all will progress to true labor and therefore not all will deliver early.

In clinical practice, recognizing this percentage helps healthcare providers counsel pregnant women at risk for preterm labor, allowing them to manage anxiety and prepare appropriately if delivery does occur. This statistic reflects the effectiveness of interventions and monitoring that can prevent preterm birth despite the initial signs of preterm labor. Such information can influence decision-making regarding interventions like tocolytics or corticosteroids, which may be administered to improve outcomes for both the mother and baby if preterm labor is suspected.

Overall, understanding this percentage aids in improving prenatal care practices and enhances patient education about the risks and outcomes associated with preterm labor.