The aim of the CERM trial is to find out if antibiotics can reduce miscarriage.

In some women the lining of the womb (the endometrium) is inflamed (a condition called endometritis). Researchers have found a link between this and miscarriage. A healthy endometrium is important for the embryo to be able to attach to the womb.

Treating endometritis with antibiotics may reduce the inflammation and the likelihood of a miscarriage. This research trial will test this theory by comparing a 14-day course of an antibiotic (doxycycline) against a placebo to find out if taking antibiotics reduces miscarriages.

• The taking of an endometrial biopsy (a small sample of tissue from your endometrium) to find out if you have endometritis.
• If endometritis is present in the tissue examined, you will then be eligible to be randomised to either:
  • 14-day course of an antibiotic (doxycycline) or
  • 14-day course of a placebo (a ‘dummy treatment’ which will look exactly the same as the antibiotic but contains no active ingredients). This is necessary to find out if taking antibiotics reduces miscarriages.

Whether you will receive doxycycline or the placebo is decided by chance.

• Agreeing to use condoms for 3 months (before biopsy, awaiting results and whilst taking the medication)

The CERM trial is currently running at the following locations:

• Burnley - Burnley General Hospital
• Coventry - University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire
• Liverpool - Liverpool Women's Hospital

How can I be referred to take part?

You may be able to take part in the CERM trial if:

Please ask your GP to refer you, via the NHS choose and book system, to Professor Siobhan Quenby at the recurrent miscarriage clinic at: University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry, CV2 2DX

Please note: 'CERM B' activities only relate to participants at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire (who have consented to CERM B)