NCT05358834 · Brigham and Women's Hospital
Testing Effects of Melatonin on Uterine Contractions in Women
(MelPreg)
What this study is about
The study will extend recent discoveries that have been made in basic human physiology related to responses melatonin and uterine contractions in late- or full-term pregnant women.
View original scientific description
The study will extend recent discoveries that have been made in basic human physiology related to responses melatonin and uterine contractions in late- or full-term pregnant women. The basic physiology work has been conducted in in vitro models of the human myometrium characterizing its responses to melatonin, and in pilot in vivo studies correlating the number of uterine contractions with melatonin concentrations that were manipulated by different types of light exposure. The planned experiments will test a causal link between circulating melatonin levels and uterine contractions in full-term pregnant women by manipulating melatonin levels using exogenous melatonin (i) during the day when endogenous levels of melatonin are very low (Experiment 1), and (ii) during the evening under conditions with lighting that would be expected to suppress the higher evening and nighttime levels of endogenous melatonin (Experiment 2).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- nulliparity, age between 18 and 35,
- BMI\<36 pre-pregnancy,
- ≥38 weeks of pregnancy with a single fetus at time of study.
Exclusion criteria
- color blind;
- prescription drugs affecting sleep, melatonin, and/or circadian rhythms (e.g., beta blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs);
- a health or pregnancy related condition that might affect melatonin or uterine contractions;
- medical conditions or medications for which melatonin might be contraindicated or there may be a drug interactions (e.g., Central Nervous System depressants/sedatives, Fluvoxamin (Luvox), medications for diabetes, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, Nifedipine, Verapamil). Note: We cannot list all possible exclusionary criteria. Dr. Carolina Bibbo (co-I), our Obstetrics Investigator at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), will make final determination of suitability including any safety concerns for each potential participant.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations