Prevention of Preterm Birth Using Cervical Pessary in Pregnant Women With Short Cervix

Randomized Controlled Trial: Prevention of Preterm Birth Using Cervical Pessary in Pregnant Women With Short Cervix (PECEP)

Placement of a vaginal pessary reduces significantly the rate of spontaneous preterm birth in pregnant women with short cervical length at 18-22 weeks scan.

This trial includes pregnant women undergoing routine ultrasound examination at 18.0 to 22.6 weeks of gestation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Singleton pregnancy
• Minimal age of 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major fetal abnormalities (requiring surgery or leading to infant death or severe handicap)
• SROM at the time of randomization
• Cervical cerclage in situ
• Active vaginal bleeding
• Previous cone biopsy or cerclage
• Major uterine structural anomalies
• Placenta previa