A study recently published in the online journal PLoS One has revealed several factors that are in some or the other way linked to preterm birth by new mums. Though, the team that conducted the study still is claiming that the findings are least helpful.

The team of researchers from University of Utah Health Sciences Center says that though, it is known that a family history of a baby with low birth weight or marijuana use or a short cervix is mainly responsible for a baby’s premature birth. It is difficult to assess a woman’s chances of giving such birth before labor.

In the study conducted with the enrolment of some 3,000 first-time mums, it was found that only 5% of all gave birth within 37 weeks of pregnancy. And despite the knowledge about probable responsible factors, the team was unable to tell any woman the time when she would deliver her baby.

Experts are also favouring the team, saying the study only sheds light on risk factors, hiding the potential to determine the delivery timings.

"Our ability to predict preterm birth remains sub-optimal. Ultimately, we need far more effective prediction and intervention strategies if we are going to impact the rate of preterm birth”, said Dr. Erin Clark, obstetrics and gynecology Assistant Professor.