No. 374-Universal Cervical Length Screening

Objective

To review the evidence and provide an opinion as to whether universal cervical length screening to prevent preterm birth should be adopted across Canada.

Outcomes

Outcomes evaluated include prevention of preterm birth.

Evidence

Literature searches using Knowledge Finder, Medline and Cochrane databases were searched for articles published up to April 2018 on cervical length screening for prevention of preterm birth.

Values

The evidence obtained was reviewed and evaluated by the Diagnostic Imaging Committee of the SOGC under the leadership of the principal authors, and recommendations were made according to guidelines developed by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care.

Benefits, Harms, and Costs

The prevention of preterm birth in a cost-effective manner is of significant importance to the health of mothers and their families. This committee opinion will summarize the current evidence for universal cervical length screening to prevent preterm birth in Canada, determine whether it meets the Junger and Wilson criteria for screening tests, and make recommendations as to its use in Canada.

Validation

These guidelines have been reviewed and approved by the Diagnostic Imaging Committee of the SOGC and The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).

Sponsors

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).