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CME Credit Offered
CME Credit Offered
Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Recording available 2/16-5/2
Recording available 2/16-5/2
AIUM Credit
AIUM Credit
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Foundation Awardee
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Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee

Poster Session 2

Category: Prematurity

Poster Session 2

(670) Feasibility Trial of Viral Mitigation Measures to Reduce Preterm Birth in High-risk Pregnant Women

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM  
Objective:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, reduction in preterm birth (PTB) rates in women exposed to viral mitigation measures was reported, specifically, in women with prior PTB. This pilot study aimed to establish the feasibility of a lifestyle intervention mimicking viral mitigation measures in high-risk pregnant women.

Study Design:
We conducted a two-arm open-label feasibility randomized controlled clinical trial in a maternity center in Melbourne, Australia. Pregnant women with previous PTB < 34 weeks were eligible. The intervention group was asked to comply with lifestyle measures including changes to hygiene measures, social contacts and daily activities. The control group underwent standard pregnancy care. The primary outcome was feasibility, measured as participant recruitment rate, compliance rate (to lifestyle interventions) and data completion rate. Secondary outcomes included incidence of preterm birth < 34 weeks, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Analysis was by intention to treat. Trial registration: ACTRN12622000753752.

Results:
From June 2022 to April 2025, 201 eligible women were screened, of which 50 (24.8%) consented and 47 were randomized. Median maternal age and gestation on the first day of the trial were comparable (Table 1). 19/23 (83%) participants randomized to intervention group completed the lifestyle intervention, with 18/23 (78%) in the intervention group and 19/24 (79%) in the control group completing the final survey. The intervention group demonstrated good compliance with lifestyle measures (Table 2), meeting the target of 75%. Incidence of PTB < 34 weeks was comparable (Table 1).

Conclusion:

While a pregnancy lifestyle intervention mimicking viral mitigation measures aimed at reducing PTB in high-risk women was difficult from a recruitment standpoint, participants who were motivated to enroll, demonstrated low dropout rates, good compliance, and high data completion.