Reading fetal movements on ultrasound to spot early signs that may relate to autism or neurodevelopmental issues
Official title: Ultrasound Study of the Foetus's General Movements
Run by Groupe Hospitalier Diaconesses Croix Saint-Simon · NCT07868185 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a new ultrasound reading grid for fetal movements can help identify risk of autism or neurodevelopmental problems before birth in pregnant people.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 75 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Groupe Hospitalier Diaconesses Croix Saint-Simon Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Paris, Paris) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 14, 2023 |
| Main results expected | February 14, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 14, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | October 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07868185 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Pregnant individuals aged 18 or older, at 13 weeks or more of gestation, undergoing routine ultrasound with no history of autism or neurodevelopmental disorders in the child, and who can provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Pregnant individuals with pathological pregnancy or those lacking capacity for consent may not benefit from this research.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will analyze fetal general movements captured on ultrasound to develop a grid that standardizes how these movements are read in utero. The study uses external or endovaginal ultrasound in a reference population to identify abnormal general movements that correlate with later neurodevelopmental outcomes. It builds on evidence from newborns showing that poor movements can signal autism risk, applying it to fetuses to explore early detection potential. Participation targets pregnant individuals 18 or older, at least 13 weeks gestation, with standard ultrasound indications and consent. The goal is to create a practical tool for ultrasound technicians to identify risk situations earlier in pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enable earlier identification and monitoring of fetuses at risk for autism or neurodevelopmental deficits, guiding follow-up and early interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in newborns shows general movements can reflect neurodevelopmental risk, but applying this in utero is novel and exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patient aged over 18 * Pregnant from 13 weeks of amenorrhoea * Indication for an ultrasound scan as part of the usual monitoring of her pregnancy * With no particular history or who has had a child with autism spectrum disorders or neurodevelopmental disorders * Able to understand the benefits and constraints of the research * Having given signed consent to participate, as well as that of his/her spouse. * Beneficiary of a social security scheme or entitled person (excluding AME). Exclusion Criteria: * Pathological pregnancy * Under guardianship, curatorship or legal protection.
Where it's running
-
Groupe Hospitalier Diaconesses Croix Saint-Simon
Paris, Paris, France Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Djazia Bouzelmat, Clinical Research Assistant
- Email: dbouzelmat@hopital-dcss.org
- Phone: 01 44 64 30 98
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.