Pre-eclampsia prevention by timed birth at term 2 (PREVENT-2): a randomised trial
The PREVENT-2 study is investigating new ways to prevent pre-eclampsia, a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy. Researchers want to see if planning an earlier delivery for women identified as being at higher risk of pre-eclampsia can reduce the chances of them developing the condition, or make it less severe. This could lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and their babies. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a group where delivery is planned earlier based on their risk, or a group where delivery happens as normal. The study hopes to find out if this planned approach makes a difference. It's open to pregnant women aged 16 and over with a single baby.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Pre-eclampsia is a health issue that can occur in some pregnancies, usually after 20 weeks. It involves high blood pressure and can affect different organs in the mother's body. Globally, it's one of the main causes of serious problems for both mothers and babies, and can even be life-threatening. Doctors already know that delivering a baby on time or slightly early in women who have pre-eclampsia can be helpful, potentially reducing serious problems for the baby and the chance of needing a C-section.
However, what isn't fully known is whether planning an earlier delivery for women who are *at risk* of developing pre-eclampsia can actually prevent the condition from happening in the first place, or make it less severe if it does occur. This is what the PREVENT-2 study aims to find out. By screening women for their risk at around 35-36 weeks of pregnancy, the study hopes to see if an earlier, planned delivery can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
Taking part in this study means you would be part of an important research effort to better understand and prevent pre-eclampsia. The goal is to gather more evidence to help doctors decide the best time for delivery for women who might be at higher risk, ultimately aiming for healthier pregnancies and safer births.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to prevent pre-eclampsia in at-risk women.
- It investigates if planned earlier delivery changes outcomes.
- Participation involves random assignment to two different delivery approaches.
- Could benefit mothers and babies by reducing pre-eclampsia related issues.
- The study is observational with some follow-up, not a new medicine or device.
- Involves King's College Hospital and Medway Maritime Hospital in the UK.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for pregnant women who are at least 16 years old. You must be carrying one baby, and your baby needs to be developing normally at the time you join the study. You'll also need to be able to understand and agree to take part.
Unfortunately, you won't be able to join the study if you are under 16, or if you have already been diagnosed with pre-eclampsia. You also can't take part if your baby has a known major health issue, or if you're already in another study that might affect the results of this one.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 16 years old or older?
- Are you pregnant with one baby?
- Is your baby healthy and developing normally?
- Have you NOT been diagnosed with pre-eclampsia already?
- Are you able to agree to take part and understand what's involved?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups. Being "randomly put into a group" means a computer will decide which group you're in, similar to flipping a coin. You won't get to choose.
In one group, called the 'intervention group', your delivery might be planned slightly earlier – between 37 and 41 weeks of pregnancy, depending on your risk of pre-eclampsia. This planned birth would happen either by inducing labour (starting it with medication) or by a planned C-section, whichever is best for you and your situation. This would ideally be within the first two days of your chosen week.
In the other group, called the 'control group', your delivery would happen naturally when your labour starts on its own, or if your doctors decide you need to deliver for other medical reasons.
Some participants from both groups might also be asked to be part of a smaller follow-up study, which involves a check-up six months after the birth. Additionally, everyone in the study will be invited to share their thoughts and experiences through a short, voluntary online survey and possibly an interview before and after birth.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- King's College HospitalApproximateLondon, England
- Medway NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyGillingham, England
Common questions
What is pre-eclampsia?
Pre-eclampsia is a condition in pregnancy with high blood pressure and other symptoms that can affect the mother and baby, usually after 20 weeks.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by The Fetal Medicine Foundation, a UK charity.
How long will the study run?
The study is expected to run from October 2025 to March 2027.
Will I know which group I'm in?
Yes, once you're randomly assigned, your care team will discuss your planned approach to delivery with you.
Can I still have a natural birth if I'm in the earlier delivery group?
Planned delivery could be by inducing labour or by C-section, depending on what's appropriate for you and your baby.
How to find out more
Lucy Singh
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.