Date of Award
Spring 5-12-2025
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Degree Type
Thesis
Abstract
Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet current clinical tools for predicting its risk lack specificity and reliability. Cervical mucus plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy by forming a barrier that protects the uterus against infection. This study investigates the use of laser speckle rheology as a noninvasive technique to assess cervical mucus biomechanics. Synthetic cervical mucus was fabricated at varying hydration levels and tested using a conventional rheometer that confirmed that the mechanical properties of the synthetic mucus samples were representative of physiological cervical mucus. These results were compared to the complex moduli found using the laser speckle rheology system, finding promising agreement between the two methods. These findings establish laser speckle rheology as a potential noninvasive method for characterizing cervical mucus mechanical properties. By providing quantitative insights into cervical mucus integrity, LSR holds promise as a diagnostic tool for PTB risk assessment. Future work will focus on refining optical property calibration, optimizing clinical implementation, and validating LSR against a broader cohort of biological samples. Ultimately, this technology aims to enhance early PTB detection strategies, leading to improved pregnancy outcomes.
Language
English (en)
Chair
Dennis Barbour
Committee Members
Christine O'Brien Alexandra Rutz
Included in
Bioimaging and Biomedical Optics Commons, Biomechanics and Biotransport Commons, Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation Commons, Investigative Techniques Commons, Maternal and Child Health Commons, Obstetrics and Gynecology Commons, Women's Health Commons