Source · HSSIB Patient Safety Investigation
Management of preterm labour and birth of twins
Published 25 August 2022
Launched 28 March 2022
Published
HSIB Legacy
Maternity
Preterm birth is one of the main causes for under-five mortality (death) and disability worldwide. This investigation considers the existing knowledge and management of preterm labour and birth of twins.
Summary
3 observations
1 action
Safety Observations
Observation 1
Observation
It may be beneficial if further research aimed to generate additional knowledge to predict and prevent preterm labour for twin pregnancies among different groups of women/pregnant people.
5.2 Treatment of threatened preterm labour
Observation 2
Observation
It may be beneficial to increase awareness among the public and healthcare professionals of the limitations of interventions for the prevention of preterm labour of multiple births.
Observation 3
Observation
It may be beneficial to regularly analyse data on multiple births so the interpretation of this data can inform learning and research.
5.8 Summary
Safety Actions
Action 1
Action
Following stakeholder feedback received during an update of the guideline for preterm labour and birth, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence decided to delete the recommendation relating to milking the cord and amend the subsequent recommendation on clamping of the cord to wait at least 60 seconds before clamping the cord of preterm babies unless there are specific maternal or fetal conditions that need earlier clamping.