Investigating umbilical cord abnormalities and pregnancy outcomes

Umbilical Cord Abnormalities in the Prediction of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes

Observational Medway NHS Foundation Trust · NCT05901688

This study is trying to see if problems with the umbilical cord can lead to serious issues during pregnancy, like stillbirth or brain damage, by looking at different cord measurements in both regular and high-risk pregnancies.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5000 (estimated)
Ages16 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorMedway NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other
Locations1 site (Gillingham, Kent)
Trial IDNCT05901688 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between umbilical cord abnormalities and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as stillbirth and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Researchers will measure various umbilical cord parameters, including the coiling index, diameter, flow velocity, and the presence of nuchal cord at two gestational stages: 20-22 weeks and 35-37 weeks. The study will include both routine unselected populations and a nested group of high-risk pregnancies to assess the predictive value of these measurements for adverse outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women with singleton pregnancies who are booked at the unit before 20 weeks of gestation.

Not a fit: Patients with multiple pregnancies, those under 16 years of age, or those with fetal abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance prenatal assessments and improve outcomes for pregnancies at risk of complications.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence regarding umbilical cord abnormalities, other studies have shown associations between fetal hypoxia and adverse outcomes, suggesting potential for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Singleton pregnancies.
2. Women booked at our unit prior to 20 weeks' gestation.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Multiple pregnancies.
2. Age \< 16 years.
3. Those unable to provide consent.
4. Pregnancies with fetal abnormalities.

Where this trial is running

Gillingham, Kent

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.
Conditions Small for Gestational Age at DeliveryHypoxic-Ischemic EncephalopathyStillbirthAdmission to Neonatal Unit
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.