Proposed study is designed to evaluate patients at particular risk for preterm delivery; those with advanced cervical exam. In this randomized prospective controlled study, we intend to examine the influence of adjunctive antibiotic use in preterm labor complicated by a cervical exam of 4 cm or greater. Comparison will be made between a study group receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics with a control group that will not receive antibiotics for pregnancy prolongation
This study is an observational study to prove that a new device, which measures the force of delivering a baby, (US patent 6,684,165) functions as described in the patent. This is the first time this has been used with patients. The device measures the force (pounds/kilograms) that is exerted as a doctor/midwife pulls on a baby during the delivery