I had another fortnightly scan yesterday (all is well with the boys thank god) and was given info about a randomized research study of pessary vs expectant management that they are doing and asked me if i would like to be a part of it.

Basically because there is more of a chance of premature labour in twins due to a shortened cervix, they are doing tests to see if a silicone pessary inserted around the cervix will prolong the pregnancy, stopping you from going into premature labour. They said if i agree to it, the pessary will be inserted at my next appointment (at 22 weeks).

I quote "The pessary is made of silicone which is soft and flexible. It is folded & introduced around the cervix by a simple vaginal examination without causing any discomfort, it does not cause an infection, it does not fall off, it does not need to be changed and u and your partner will not feel anything different during sexual intercourse. The pessary will be removed by a simple vaginal examination before deliver".

Aparently is does not harm you or the baby and should not have any side effects expect for increased discharge. There is no known benefits at this stage which is why they want twin mums to take part in the trial. Have any of you heard of this and would you take part, or as there is no evidence that it works, is it better to leave nature take its course? Not sure if i should agree to it....

Sorry for the long post, but your opinions would mean alot. Thanks

Oh i havnt heard of this,but i think in my opinion i would just let nature take its course,i dont know what you think..but thats why you posted it on here lol
Let us know what you decide x

Thats what i was thinking. Not sure if i like the idea of having to have a vaginal examination unless i really need one and considering that there's no evidence that it works, why take the risk - but then again my OH said if it does lengthen the pregnancy it may be a good idea, so not sure but i probably wont go ahead with it. I'll let you know once i decide for sure xx

I would not do it..I don't like the idea of them trying things out on me and the babes...

I would not do it..I don't like the idea of them trying things out on me and the babes...

Personally I wouldnt do it, but thats just my opinion xxx

I wouldnt want to do it either, I guess it's quite a personal thing because unless they can trial these things they cannot help expectant mothers in the future!

I was going to do this-if its the trail called the OPPTIMUM trial? But Ive already started on the tablets you are describing....which causes no harm to the baby x

I chose to take part in this and had the pessary fitted at 22 weeks. I understand your feelings ladies and didnt make my mind up for sure until the last minute. It was quite ' ouchy' going in and have noticed the ' increased vaginal discharge' but otherwise all is well so far. My cervix was 26mm at the time it was put in which is the lower side of normal so i thought it might be beneficial. Shall find out at my next cervix scan in 2 weeks!!!