Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine if cervical fluid antibody concentrations can enhance the value of cervical length in predicting risk of preterm delivery. Study design: We obtained cervical fluid samples with preweighed cellulose wicks from a prospective cohort of women 23 to 32 weeks’ gestation with signs and symptoms of preterm labor and intact membranes. Total immunoglobulin A and G (IgA and IgG) concentrations were determined by enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay. Bacterial vaginosis was diagnosed by Gram stain, and cervical length was measured with endovaginal ultrasound. Results: For subjects with term (n = 77) and preterm (n = 24) deliveries, median IgA and IgG concentrations were 736 vs 643 μ g/mL (P =. 33) and 1528 vs 1769 μ g/mL (P =. 85). For subjects with normal flora (n = 71), intermediate flora (n = 14), and bacterial vaginosis (n = 16), median IgA and IgG concentrations were 717, 624, and 774 μ g/mL (P =. 90) and 1383, 1553, and 2731 μ g/mL (P =. 02). In a forward stepwise logistic regression model, cervical length was the only factor associated with preterm delivery (P <. 001). Conclusion: Measuring the concentrations of IgA and IgG in cervical fluid does not enhance the value of cervical length in predicting risk of preterm delivery.
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