Acceptability of Supplemental Progesterone to Prevent Preterm Labor and Low Birth Weight in Pregnant Zambian Women [32D]. (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wong, Jeffrey M.H.; Dogra, Nupur; Kanga, Neha; Ngoma, Mary; Serghides, Lena; Silverman, Michael
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 129 (2017)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000514377.60352.d7
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: Intramuscular and vaginal progesterone are recommended for the prevention of preterm labor (PTL) in women with risk factors. Studies are emerging to indicate that HIV-infected women on combination antiretroviral treatments (cART) are at risk of PTL and low birth weight (LBW) and may benefit from supplemental progesterone. This study aims to determine the perceived acceptability of various modes of progesterone supplementation to prevent PTL and LBW in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women. METHODS: HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women were recruited in Lusaka, Zambia. The participants completed a questionnaire to assess their concern for PTL and LBW, and their willingness and preference for oral, vaginal, or intramuscular progesterone supplementation for preventing PTL and LBW. RESULTS: The study questionnaire was completed by 147 participants. 98.6% of participants would consider using a medication to help prevent PTL and LBW, of whom 97.9% would consider using an oral form of progesterone. In addition, 83.3% and 84.0% of women would consider intramuscular and vaginal (gel or tablet) administration of progesterone respectively. When choosing between intramuscular and vaginal modes of progesterone, 60.5% of participants (n=147) preferred intramuscular progesterone, while 39.5% preferred vaginal progesterone. There were no differences in preference between HIV-infected (n=70) and HIV-uninfected (n=77) women. CONCLUSION: Pregnant Zambian women demonstrated a high degree of acceptance for all modes of progesterone supplementation for the prevention of PTL and LBW. Women preferred intramuscular over vaginal supplementation. Progesterone supplementation can be considered a feasible intervention for preventing PTL and LBW in both HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected pregnant Zambian women.