Prematurity is the major cause of death in normal infants and about 1 in 10 mothers go into pre-term labour when the process starts too early. Premature babies miss out on vital development time in their mother’s womb, often leaving them with organs which just aren’t up to the task of sustaining life.

The hormone progesterone keeps the womb relaxed and inhibits labour. Progesterone prolongs pregnancy and Dr Loudon is exploring a mechanism which may influence the activity of this hormone at the time of labour. This work will explore the process in more detail and may help in the prevention of pre-term delivery.