The importance of rheobase measurement and external tocometry in the diagnosis of imminent premature birth was studied in the context of 86 cases. Rheobase measurement was found to provide the following benefits: (a) Indication of readiness for labour; (b) No dependence on abdominal wall thickness, positioning nor respiratory movement; (c) Less time required for examination.--Premature labour can be detected with higher accuracy by means of rheobase measurement. Better assessment is possible of neurovegetative responses of the given organism to provide a more dependable foundation for therapeutic action, such as tocolysis or cerclage.--Rheobase measurement should be adapted as a routine approach, particularly by hospitals which do not yet have the equipment required for external tocometry.