Maternal Dietary Patterns during the Second Trimester Are Associated with Preterm Birth

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth is a primary cause of neonatal morbidity in the US.
• The exact causes of preterm birth remain largely unknown despite extensive research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and the incidence of preterm birth.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study involving 3143 participants from the Pregnancy, Infection, and Nutrition (PIN) study.
• Dietary intake was assessed using a food-frequency questionnaire between 26-29 weeks of gestation.
• Dietary patterns were identified through factor analysis and adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was evaluated. Associations were analyzed using logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Four distinct dietary patterns were identified.
• A diet characterized by high consumption of collard greens, red and processed meats, fried foods, and sugary drinks was associated with increased odds of preterm birth (adjusted OR: 1.55).
• Greater adherence to the DASH diet was associated with decreased odds of preterm birth (adjusted OR: 0.59).

Conclusions:

• Pregnancy diet quality is significantly associated with preterm birth risk.
• Promoting healthy dietary patterns through preconceptional and early prenatal counseling may improve pregnancy outcomes.