Using synbiotics to reduce the risk of preterm birth

Synbiotics in Patients at RIsk fOr Preterm Birth: a Multi-center Double-blind Randomized Placebo-controlled trIal

Not applicable Interventional Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg · NCT05966649

This study is testing if taking synbiotics can help women at high risk for preterm birth have healthier pregnancies by improving their vaginal microbiome.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment402 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorZiekenhuis Oost-Limburg Academic / other
Locations9 sites (Edegem, Antwerpen and 8 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05966649 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the use of synbiotics in women at high risk for preterm birth, particularly those with a history of spontaneous preterm delivery or other related complications. The study aims to assess whether synbiotics can positively influence the vaginal microbiome and potentially reduce the incidence of preterm labor. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either synbiotics or a placebo, and their outcomes will be monitored throughout the pregnancy. The trial seeks to provide insights into the relationship between microbial colonization and preterm birth.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women aged 18 and older with a singleton pregnancy who have a history of preterm birth or other risk factors for spontaneous preterm labor.

Not a fit: Patients with multiple pregnancies or those currently using pro-, pre-, or synbiotics may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new preventive strategies for reducing the risk of preterm birth in high-risk women.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of synbiotics in pregnancy is an emerging area, previous studies have shown promising results in related fields, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Signed written informed consent must be obtained before any study assessment is performed;
2. 18 years of age or older;
3. Singleton pregnancy;
4. Pregnancy consultation between 8 and 10 weeks gestation.
5. At least one of the following risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth:

   * Prior spontaneous preterm birth, defined as delivery between 24 and 36 weeks following PPROM, preterm labor or cervical insufficiency
   * PPROM ≤36 weeks in previous pregnancy
   * Prior spontaneous second-trimester pregnancy loss, defined as PPROM, preterm labor or cervical insufficiency with birth between 14 and 24 weeks.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who are already using pro-, pre- or synbiotics and not willing to stop
2. Multiple pregnancy
3. Need for primary (type 1) cerclage
4. Inflammatory bowel disease
5. Known congenital uterine anomaly
6. History of LLETZ conization

Where this trial is running

Edegem, Antwerpen and 8 other locations

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 Preterm Spontaneous Labor With Preterm DeliveryPreterm BirthMicrobial ColonizationMicrobiome DysbiosisVaginal MicrobiomeSynbioticsPreterm birthVaginal microbiome
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.