Prolene Versus Ethibond for Cervical Cerclage

The purpose of the proposed study is to examine the relationship between cerclage suture
material of Ethibond and Prolene and its effect on the vaginal microbiome in a prospective
randomized control trial. Ethibond is another commonly used suture material for performing
cervical cerclage that shares some characteristics with previously studied suture materials.
It is braided like the Mersilene, but thinner like the monofilament Prolene. The
investigators will study whether Ethibond causes the vaginal microbiome to be adversely
affected like Mersilene or whether there is a healthy microbiome like Prolene. This study
will allow the investigators to determine whether it is advisable to continue to use Ethibond
for cervical cerclage in clinical practice, or whether obstetricians should avoid its use as
now done with Mersilene.