Validation of Sensors for Long-term Non-Invasive Fetal Monitoring
Doctors and engineers are working together to test new sensors that can be placed on a pregnant woman's tummy without needing to be stuck down. These sensors aim to pick up the mother's and baby's heartbeats and the baby's movements during the later stages of pregnancy. The main goal is to be able to monitor babies for longer periods, which could help spot those who might not be getting enough oxygen. We need to check if these sensors work reliably and give accurate information compared to current methods. This research will help decide if these sensors can be developed into a new way to monitor babies before they are born.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about making pregnancy monitoring safer and more comfortable for mums and babies. A team of medical doctors and engineers has created a new type of sensor. Imagine a small device that can gently rest on your pregnant tummy without any sticky bits. Its main job is to listen in on your heartbeat, your baby's heartbeat, and even detect your baby's movements in the last few months of pregnancy.
The main idea behind this new sensor is to be able to monitor babies for longer periods. This is really important because it could help doctors identify babies who might be struggling or not getting enough oxygen while still in the womb. Catching these signs early is crucial for ensuring babies are born healthy. We need to thoroughly test these new sensors to make sure they work perfectly, giving clear and reliable information every time.
We'll be doing this in two main steps. First, we need to make sure the sensors can consistently pick up heartbeats without getting confused by your movements or other electronic devices nearby. We'll fine-tune the technology until it's just right. Then, we'll compare the readings from our new sensors with the methods doctors currently use, to check that the information is just as accurate. This research is a really important step towards potentially using these sensors in the future to help keep an even closer eye on babies before they are born.
Key takeaways
- New sensors for comfortable baby monitoring in late pregnancy.
- Aims to detect both mother's and baby's heartbeats and baby's movements.
- Could help identify babies lacking oxygen earlier.
- Sensors are non-invasive and gently held on the skin.
- Compares new sensor data with existing monitoring methods.
- Participation involves monitoring sessions up to 60 minutes.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be pregnant with one baby and be at least 28 weeks along in your pregnancy. Your baby's estimated size should be normal – not too big and not too small. You also need to be 16 years old or older and be able to understand and speak English fluently.
We unfortunately can't include you if your baby has any known health problems or if you're expecting more than one baby. You also can't take part if your baby is considered to be growing too slowly. It's really important that you can understand what the study involves and agree to take part freely.
- Are you pregnant with one baby?
- Are you at least 28 weeks pregnant?
- Is your baby's growth within a normal range?
- Are you 16 years old or over?
- Do you speak and understand fluent English?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to visit either Tommy's research clinics or the antenatal clinics at St Mary's Hospital in Manchester. Before using the sensors, you'll have an ultrasound scan to check your baby's wellbeing, including their size and the fluid around them. This is to make sure your baby is healthy before we start.
During each visit, you'll lie on a comfortable examination couch for up to 60 minutes, usually slightly propped up. The new electronic sensor(s) will be gently held against your tummy using a soft elastic belt. You'll be able to adjust your position if you feel uncomfortable, so you can sit or stand if needed. We'll also record some basic information like your weight, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and your baby's estimated weight. The study involves looking at signals during different stages of late pregnancy, so there might be a few visits depending on which part of the study you are invited for. We expect the total commitment to be a few hours across one or more visits.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Manchester University NHS Foundation TrustManchester, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What exactly are these new sensors?
They are small electronic devices that can be placed on your skin without needing to be stuck down, designed to pick up your heartbeat, your baby's heartbeat, and baby's movements.
Why is this research important?
This research aims to find a better, more comfortable way to monitor babies for longer durations during late pregnancy, which could help identify babies who might need extra help sooner.
Will the sensors hurt me or my baby?
No, the sensors are designed to be non-invasive and gentle. They will be held against your tummy with a soft elastic belt and should not cause any pain or harm.
How long will I need to wear the sensors?
You'll typically wear the sensors for up to 60 minutes during each study visit while lying down on an examination couch.
Where does the study take place?
The study visits will be at Tommy's research clinics or the antenatal clinics at St Mary's Hospital in Manchester.
How to find out more
Alexander Heazell, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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