Understanding spontaneous preterm birth: from underlying mechanisms to predictive and preventive interventions

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neonatology
• Reproductive Immunology

Background:

• Preterm birth (before 37 weeks' gestation) affects 7-11% of births.
• It is a leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity.
• Preterm birth is a clinical syndrome with diverse pathological origins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the complex pathogenesis of preterm birth.
• To identify key risk factors associated with preterm birth.
• To discuss current and potential therapeutic options for preterm birth.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on preterm birth.
• Analysis of pathological processes leading to premature labor.
• Examination of immune system deregulation and inflammation in preterm birth.

Main Results:

• Preterm birth pathogenesis involves premature activation of parturition mechanisms.
• Immune system deregulation and exaggerated inflammation are common central mechanisms.
• Incidence of preterm birth has been increasing in recent decades.

Conclusions:

• Improving primary and secondary prevention of preterm birth is crucial.
• Understanding the complex pathogenesis is key to developing effective interventions.
• Further research into risk factors and therapies is needed to reduce incidence and improve outcomes.