Maternal-Child Microbiome: Specimen Collection, Storage, and Implications for Research and Practice

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Maternal and child health
• Nursing science

Background:

• The maternal microbiome significantly influences pregnancy outcomes and the health of mother and infant.
• Advances in maternal and child microbiome science offer potential solutions for pregnancy complications and chronic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review site-specific considerations for collecting and storing maternal and child microbiome samples.
• To discuss the implications for nursing research and practice.

Main Methods:

• A review and synthesis of microbiome sampling protocols.
• Identification of precautions across various sampling methods.

Main Results:

• Viable sampling sites include oral, vaginal, gut, placental, and breast milk.
• Pre-sampling considerations include medications, health status, and hygiene.
• Proper storage is essential to prevent sample degradation.

Conclusions:

• Microbiome changes during perinatal, postpartum, and childhood periods significantly impact long-term health.
• Accurate sampling techniques are vital for evidence-based practice.
• Nurses play a key role in microbiome research and clinical application.