The role of microbiome in pregnancy

Abstract

Summary:

Aim of the review: to provide a comprehensive overview of the avaible information on the maternal microbiome and its effect on pregnancy and preterm birth.

Methodology: systematic review of available literature on the topic was done using PubMed database

Conclusion: Etiology of preterm labor is multifactorial. Individual setting of humoral and cellular immune response is key, however lately the focus has shifted to the role of microbiome, especially the vaginal one. The role of additional microbiomes and the relationship between different compartments are the focus of intensive research. Mainly the differences in maternal and neonatal microbiome depending on the method of delivery and administration of different antibiotics during pregnany and labor. The uterine cavity is no longer thought to be without colonisation and the formation of fetal microbiome begins early in pregnancy.  

Keywords:

microbiome – preterm labor – antibiotics – microbial invasion of amniotic cavity – vaginal seeding