New method allows better detection of impending premature birth

Münster University Hospital uses a new method to detect impending premature births
The risk of premature birth depends on many factors and every additional day in the womb improves the chances of the child. Here, the earliest possible prediction of impending premature births can be helpful in order to make preparations and initiate any countermeasures. At Münster University Hospital (UKM), a new method is used to measure the elasticity of the cervix in order to predict impending premature births.

By early detection of impending premature births, it will be possible to maintain pregnancies as long as possible and thus reduce the risks to the child, explain the scientists. "A baby will ideally develop if it is born after the 38th week of pregnancy," says the UKM. However, many pregnancies do not go according to plan and the children are born too soon. However, the risk of premature births has been difficult to predict so far. The new method of elasticity measurement on the cervix can remedy this situation.

Threatening preterm births can be recognized early on with the help of a new method. (Image: and.one/fotolia.com)

Every day in the womb counts
The research team at UKM has now developed a new technology that can better detect impending premature births, according to the Uniklinik. "When it comes to premature birth, every day counts in the womb," Dr. Ralf Schmitz, Head of Prenatal Medicine, UKM Obstetrics. Therefore, at the UKM, doctors not only measure the length of the cervix in order to detect premature births early but also their elasticity. During pregnancy, the cervix changes and usually becomes softer and shorter towards the end of pregnancy. "If a change is detected long before the expected date of delivery, there is an increased likelihood of premature birth," reports the University of Münster. The change in the elasticity pattern can now be reliably measured and the cervix is ​​then no longer homogeneously taut, but similar to a "cow patch", explains Dr. med. Schmitz. The diagnosis was made by "high-frequency elastography", a completely painless and low-risk examination method for women.

Check causes and take countermeasures
However, the results of the work group at the UKM go according to the University Hospital even further. The doctors had managed to set a limit for the change. If an imminent premature birth is detected, the doctors examine possible causes, such as an infection, diabetes or a mechanical weakness of the cervix, according to the announcement of the UKM. The next step is to fight the causative factors to prolong the pregnancy as much as possible. "Because the unborn baby should remain in the womb for as long as possible," emphasize the doctors. (Fp)