University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers are studying placentas from births at a local hospital to identify structural changes in fetal membranes that could help determine when a premature birth is likely to occur.
The Wisconsin State Journal reports the Morgridge Institute for Research this month began studying four placentas from UnityPoint Health-Meriter. The study could examine up to 70 placentas, which are typically discarded.
University scientists also hope to create fiber optic cameras and enhance ultrasound technology to help doctors see changes in fetal members or the cervix that could indicate an early delivery.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, babies born early may not feed well, can be developmentally delayed and may have problems breathing, seeing and hearing.
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