About

‘Containing Pregnancies’

is an investigation of the

cervical stitch (cerclage)

through the experiences of

women, other people, and

clinical staff

This social science research considers the use of the cervical stitch (cerclage), in the context of the NHS’s attempts to reduce preterm birth in England. 

The cervical stitch is an intervention in pregnancy in which the cervix at the opening of the uterus is sewn shut to prevent a foetal body from emerging. 

The project will draw out fundamental understandings of pregnancy and the making of new persons in the context of reproductive politics in England.

The research is funded by Wellcome and carried out by Dr Aimee Middlemiss in the Centre for Cultures and Environments of Health.

The project will take place from 2025-2029.