Investigating microorganisms in pregnant women at risk for preterm birth

Investigation Into the Fungal Microbiome (Mycobiome) in the Cervices of Cervical Insufficiency Patients Receiving Cerclage Treatment and Resulting in Term or Preterm Birth

Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT04688866

This study looks at the germs in the cervix of pregnant women who are at risk for preterm birth to see if there are differences between those with a short cervix and those with a normal one.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexFemale
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong (other)
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT04688866 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on pregnant women with a cervical length of less than 25 mm, who are at high risk for preterm birth. The researchers aim to identify differences in cervical microorganisms between women with cervical insufficiency and those with normal cervical length. Utilizing advanced molecular methods, including PCR amplification and next-generation sequencing, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive survey of microbial communities in the cervix. This approach aims to uncover potentially pathogenic microorganisms that may contribute to cervical insufficiency and preterm birth.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women with a cervical length of less than 25 mm or those with a dilated cervix during the second trimester.

Not a fit: Patients with multiple pregnancies or those associated with fetal chromosomal abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and management of preterm birth risks in pregnant women.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence linking cervical microorganisms to preterm birth, this study employs novel sequencing techniques that have not been extensively tested in this specific context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women with or without cervical insufficiency (cervical length \<25 mm or dilated cervix in the second trimester or the late first trimester)

Exclusion Criteria:

* multiple pregnancies and pregnancies associated with fetal chromosomal abnormality

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cervical Insufficiency, Preterm Birth, preterm birth, cervical insufficiency, cerclage, pessary

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.