Spontaneous preterm birth is a heterogeneous phenotype. A multitude of pathophysiologic
pathways culminate in the final common denominator of cervical softening, shortening, and …

Approximately one in ten (approximately 500,000) pregnancies results in preterm birth (PTB)
annually in the United States. Although we have seen a slight decrease in the US PTB rate …

Proper cervical function is essential for a normal pregnancy and birth to occur.
Understanding the mechanisms that take place in normal pregnancy will allow a better …

The cervix functions as a barrier between the uterus and vagina and keeps the uterus closed
until term so that the fetus can develop. For delivery the cervix must soften and dilate, and …

Major clinical challenges for obstetricians and neonatologists result from early cervix
remodeling and preterm birth. Complications related to cervix remodeling or delivery …

Since ancient times, cervical assessment for predicting timing of delivery has relied primarily
on digital (subjective) assessment of dilatation, softening, and length. To date, transvaginal …

The cervix serves as a protective barrier from invading microorganisms and as a structural
barrier to delivery of the fetus. Among all biological processes, the phenomenal connective …

Through pregnancy the cervix must simultaneously remain competent for pregnancy
maintenance and yet become progressively compliant to ensure on time parturition. Cervical …

Preterm birth is considered one of the main etiologies of neonatal death, as well as short-
and long-term disability worldwide. A number of pathophysiological processes take place in …

The rearrangement of the extracellular matrix of the uterine cervix during pregnancy and
parturition occurs by the progression of a complex, finely regulated biochemical cascade. In …