New blue light emitting goggles could help make preterm labour history

Researchers are tackling a new and inventive way to slow down and perhaps prevent preterm labor. Associate Professor James Olcese is developing goggles he's calling them light emitting devices that could intermittently flash a blue light at a sleeping pregnant mother at risk for preterm labor. That flash of light could cause a drop in the brain hormone melatonin, which is tied to contractions. Ideally, the contractions would slow down or stop. (Read: Working mummies-to-be, here's your 'stay fit' guide during pregnancy)

In 2009, Olcese discovered that many women go into labor at night when melatonin is at its peak. Future research through a partnership with preterm labor patients at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital found that when women were exposed to bright light overnight, the cells associated with contractions saw a drop in melatonin levels, suppressing contractions and potentially delaying labor. Olcese patented his theory that reducing melatonin would produce better results for women at risk of preterm labor. (Read: What precautions should I take during the first trimester of pregnancy?)

In the study at TMH, the patients were exposed to a computer-monitor-sized lamp shining full-spectrum light. But, that interrupted sleeping patterns and was generally uncomfortable for some participants. So Olcese, a recent winner of a $35,000 GAP award from the university, is working to develop a pair goggles that will flash blue light. Preterm birth is the birth of an infant prior to 37 weeks of pregnancy. Thirty-five percent of infant deaths are associated with preterm labor. (Read: 7 essentials every pregnant woman's diet should have)