PGI introduces cervical ring device to check preterm births

Naina Mishra

Chandigarh, February 11

In a ground breaking development, the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has introduced an adjustable dual-action cervical ring with a pharmacomechanical effect, aptly named “Cerviring-Pro”.

This device addresses critical issues associated with existing progesterone treatments, offering a solution to reduce preterm deliveries and newborn deaths.

Preterm births pose a significant health challenge worldwide, with rates ranging from 5% to 18% across 184 countries. India, in particular, faced alarming preterm birth numbers in 2020, totaling 3016,700.

Use of device

• Suspected/threaten preterm labor cases
• Recurrent pregnancy loss
• Luteal phase support of progesterone
• High-risk patients conceived by In Vitro Fertilisation

Newborn deaths within the first month of life contribute to 40% of all deaths among children under five. Preterm birth stands as the primary cause of newborn deaths globally and the second-leading cause of child deaths under five, following pneumonia, as per National Health Portal of India.

The Cerviring-Pro device aims to address shortcomings in existing progesterone treatments, highlighting issues such as the withdrawal of Hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection due to childhood cancer concerns, oral progesterone’s adverse effects on liver function and cardiac health, and the inconvenience and potential risks associated with existing vaginal progesterone options.

The new device is designed for suspected/threatened preterm labor cases, recurrent pregnancy loss, luteal phase support of progesterone and high-risk patients conceived by in vitro fertilisation.

The device has the ability for continuous release of progesterone throughout pregnancy that can be used for progesterone support during first trimester. Progesterone, a hormone crucial for maintaining pregnancy, plays a key role in supporting the uterine lining, preventing contractions, and supporting fetal development.

The continuous release of progesterone from Cerviring-Pro aims to provide a sustained and consistent level of this hormone throughout pregnancy, helping to prevent premature labor and birth.

The release of progesterone will also help in high-risk pregnancies, especially those conceived through in vitro fertilisation and in the cases of luteal phase deficiency, where the body does not produce enough progesterone to support a pregnancy. Progesterone deficiency is often associated with recurrent pregnancy loss. With the help of the device, the chances of a successful pregnancy will be improved.

Beyond progesterone release, Cerviring-Pro incorporates a snap-lock loop stripe, providing a mechanical effect on the cervix. This dual-action approach aims to reinforce the cervical structure, adding an extra layer of support to prevent issues like cervical insufficiency.

DUAL-ACTION BENEFITS

• The Cerviring-Pro is designed to be placed in the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
• The device is strategically positioned within the cervix to deliver its dual-action benefits – continuous progesterone release and a pharmacomechanical effect.
• This placement allows for targeted support in preventing preterm births, supporting pregnancies with various indications, and providing mechanical reinforcement to the cervix.