METHODS AND KITS FOR PREDICTING THE ONSET OF LABOUR

摘要

The present invention relates to methods and kits useful for predicting the time of onset of or the susceptibility of a subject to the onset of labour in a pregnant subject. Also disclosed are methods of determining the susceptibility of a subject to successful induction of labour. In particular, the invention relates to methods and kits for predicting or assessing the susceptibility of a subject to the onset of labour wherein the levels of at least two hormones, selected from estriol, estradiol and progesterone, are determined and a ratio of said levels is calculated, and wherein the susceptibility to the onset of labour is predicted by comparison of said ratio with a predetermined ratio. The invention further contemplates methods for preventing preterm delivery of an infant/offspring and for predicting whether a subject is likely to respond to induction of labour at or post term.