17 Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone, also known as 17P, is a special therapy that is believed to have the potential to prevent thousands of expectant mothers from delivering their babies prematurely. Sadly, the preterm birth rate has climbed an estimated 20% in America since 1990. However, some studies that have been conducted on 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone found that participants who received weekly injections of the medication had a significant reduction in the rate of recurring preterm delivery, and it also lowered the probability of their infants suffering from several complications.

17 Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone is a progestogen that is very similar to the hormone progesterone and has been designed for women who suffer recurrent miscarriages and/or various menstrual disorders. It has been found to be safe and effective for women who are at a higher risk for delivering their babies too early by keeping their progesterone levels up. Progesterone is very important during pregnancy, and though it is not entirely understood how this hormone prevents preterm birth, it has shown to keep the uterus from contracting.

Females who are candidates for this type of treatment are those carrying one child (singleton pregnancy) and who have experienced previous unplanned preterm delivery (37 weeks gestation) of a single baby. A woman who is interested in taking 17 Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone should talk to her health care provider to find out more information and to see if this prescription medication is ideal for her situation. In addition, 17P is only available through compound pharmacies.