Dr. La Follette Presents the Latest in OBGYN Research for 2021
Continuing to provide you with the best OBGYN care available, Dr. La Follette has embarked on three new studies to improve care for women in 2021. As one of the most forward-thinking Obstetrics, gynecology, and aesthetic service providers in the state, our center is proud to be at the forefront of the latest in women’s health. If you’re interested in participating in one of the studies summarized below, contact our center today by calling (415) 461-1949.
Materna Prep by Materna Medical Study
Materna Medical is conducting a study to see if they can help first-time moms achieve less pelvic muscle injuries and a shorter length of delivery during childbirth. The Materna Prep by Materna Medical is the latest device developed over the course of 10 years by Stanford BioHub, that offers a potential solution to this problem. The Materna Prep is designed to evenly and slowly expand the pelvic floor (both tissue and muscle) to accommodate for the baby’s head. The NIH offered a grant to further pursue research into this product.
In participating in this study using Prep in labor, we may be able to show pelvic floor preservation and protection while shorting the pushing stage of labor: a win-win!
The latest research into the Prep device is a randomized, control study for laboring patients. The IRB process is completed and is launching this month. The study participants, 40-50 total, will be offered a randomized choice of device or a sham as they approach the final weeks of their pregnancy. After explaining the risks (none as the device is small and safe) and benefits, patients will be able to enroll before labor. After delivery, we will measure the integrity of your pelvic floor including muscle attachments and pelvic structural support with our new GE sonogram to illustrate the findings.
Next Gen Jane Prospective Study
Prenatal screenings are essential for assessing the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy. This study, conducted by another FemTech company called Next Gen Jane, is designed to assess the possibility of conducting prenatal screening procedures non-invasively. During the study, a cotton tampon will be worn by participants for one hour. The theory surrounding this process is that trophoblastic cells can be shed both in the bloodstream and through the cervix in order to collect full fetal genetic information non-invasively. Participants will need to be pregnant women within 22 weeks of gestation.
Stanford 1000 Immunomes Project
The third study out of Stanford University and the Buck Institute of Aging follows an NIH grant after the Stanford 1000 Immunomes Project. During this study, blood will be drawn about 4 times in the 6 months from participants. This process will aim to establish an inflammatory age (iAge). Then, participants will be given FDA-cleared and safe supplements in the course of a randomized controlled study to determine if iAge can be lowered. 500 patients and their spouses/significant others will be needed for this 6-month study.
Connect with La Follette in Northern California
Dr. La Follette is a forerunner in all aspects of women’s health. Her drive and expertise allow her to continually innovate the field through safe, carefully controlled studies. If you’re interested in participating in any of the above get in touch with our Northern California center by visiting our website or giving us a call at (415) 461-1949.
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