Screening To Obviate Preterm Birth (STOP)

Preterm Birth is a complex syndrome for which several different biologically plausible pathways have been proposed, including mechanical uterine distension, abruption, inflammation, and/or activation of the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-axis. However, despite our knowing the complexity of this syndrome and the different pathways involved, there is a paucity of clinical studies investigating whether detection of more than one of these pathways in a single patient might enhance the identification of those at greatest risk for preterm birth. We propose investigating the predictive value of a panel of biomarkers associated with two biological plausible pathways - membrane breakdown and cervical remodeling - that must be involved in the pathogenesis of preterm birth. Specifically, we propose measuring cervical length and collecting cervicovaginal fetal fibronectin as well as a panel of novel cervicovaginal biomarkers that reflect molecular pathways involved in cervical remodeling in a prospectively collected cohort of symptomatic women with singleton fetuses at high risk for preterm birth. Through this study we hope improve risk stratification of this high risk cohort.