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Modeling Ascending Vaginal Infection, Preterm Birth, and Neonatal Morbidity in Mice
Published on: October 10, 2025
Infection-related stillbirths
Robert L Goldenberg1, Elizabeth M McClure, Sarah Saleem
1Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA. rgoldenb@drexelmed.edu
Lancet (London, England)
|March 13, 2010
Summary
Infections cause a significant portion of stillbirths globally, particularly in low-income nations. Strategies targeting specific infections like syphilis and malaria are crucial for stillbirth prevention.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Global Health
Background:
- Infection is a leading cause of stillbirths worldwide, with higher prevalence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to high-income countries.
- Syphilis is a major contributor to infectious stillbirths and is amenable to screening and treatment.
- Other significant infectious causes include ascending bacterial infections, viral infections, malaria, and zoonotic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the global impact of infections on stillbirth rates.
- To identify specific infectious agents and risk factors associated with stillbirth.
- To emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies, especially in LMICs.
Main Methods:
- The study is a review of existing literature on infection and stillbirth.
- It synthesizes data on the prevalence and impact of various infections on stillbirth rates globally.
- It discusses current and potential prevention strategies for infectious stillbirths.
Main Results:
- In LMICs, infections likely cause 50% or more of stillbirths, versus 10-25% in high-income countries.
- Syphilis is the most common infectious cause amenable to intervention.
- Malaria and ascending bacterial infections are also significant contributors.
Conclusions:
- Reducing stillbirths globally requires effective strategies to prevent and manage infections.
- Targeted interventions for syphilis, malaria, and other prevalent infections are essential.
- Further research is needed to develop and implement effective prevention strategies for zoonotic and vector-borne infections in LMICs.
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