• Decision Making Among Couples Concerning "Permanent/Irreversible" Birth Control

    Official Title Couple Dynamics Surrounding Contraceptive Sterilization

    Purpose

    This study aims to understand people’s experiences with contraceptive sterilization (such as tubal ligations or vasectomies).
    The purpose of this study is to better understand how adults decide to use sterilization as
    their main form of birth control. By examining sterilization decisions, this study will
    provide a better understanding of how individuals describe and explain their decision
    making process.

    In this study we are interested in learning how people discuss these decisions with their partner, as
    well as everyday interactions with their partner, other forms of birth control, and attitudes
    about gender more generally.

    Could this study be right for you?

    • Ages 21-55
    • Have used tubal ligation or vasectomy as primary contraception, WITHIN the last five (5) years

    Participants will be asked to answer a series of questions regarding their experience with sterilization. Interviews will be digitally recorded by audiotape and will remain confidential. The duration of the interview will last approximately one hour to one hour and thirty minutes.

    Age Range

    21 and up
  • A Study for Women Who are Carrying Twins (PROSPECT)

    Official Title A Randomized Trial of Pessary and Progesterone for Preterm Prevention in Twin Gestation with a Short Cervix (PROSPECT)

    Purpose

    The purpose of this research study is to determine if the use of a pessary or vaginal progesterone will reduce the likelihood of preterm delivery in mothers who are pregnant with twins who have a shortened cervix.

    Studies have shown that women pregnant with twins are more likely to deliver their babies preterm (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) compared with women pregnant with only one baby. Babies born preterm have a greater chance of having serious, long-term health problems or dying. A short cervix is more common in women carrying twins. Women who have a short cervix are more likely to deliver their babies preterm. The best treatment for pregnant women with twins who have a short cervix is not known. Some studies have shown that placing a pessary around the cervix or using vaginal progesterone may help to prolong the pregnancy.

    Could this study be right for you?

    • Women who are pregnant with twins
    • Are between 16-23 weeks 6 days gestation, based on clinical information and evaluation of the earliest ultrasound
    • Vaginal progesterone NOT used during pregnancy OR discontinued prior to 14 weeks gestation

    Age Range

    18 and up