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Premature rupture of membranes and changes in the vaginal microbiome - Probiotics

Kamila Gorczyca1, Małgorzata M Kozioł2, Żaneta Kimber-Trojnar1

  • 1Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8 Street, 20-090 Lublin, Poland.

Reproductive Biology
|May 28, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Vaginal microbial dysbiosis is linked to preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), increasing risks for mothers and newborns. Probiotics may help prevent abnormal vaginal flora and reduce infection risks in pregnant women.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Microbiology
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Preterm birth impacts 15 million worldwide, with 30% attributed to preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).
  • Factors influencing preterm birth include genetic, hormonal, immunological, and socio-economic conditions.
  • Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of the vaginal microbiome in pregnancy outcomes and preterm delivery risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review studies on vaginal microflora composition in PPROM.
  • To evaluate the role of vaginal microbiota in PPROM-related preterm labor.
  • To assess the potential of probiotics in preventing preterm labor.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review of studies investigating vaginal microflora in PPROM.
  • Analysis of research on the association between vaginal dysbiosis and preterm birth.
  • Evaluation of clinical trials and observational studies on probiotic interventions.

Main Results:

  • Vaginal microbial dysbiosis is a common finding in PPROM cases.
  • Dysbiosis is associated with increased risk of prematurity, maternal infection, and neonatal morbidity/mortality.
  • Probiotics show potential in preventing pathological vaginal flora and reducing infection risk.

Conclusions:

  • Vaginal microbiome alterations play a crucial role in PPROM and subsequent preterm birth.
  • Targeting vaginal dysbiosis may offer a strategy for preventing preterm labor.
  • Further research into biomarkers and probiotic efficacy is warranted for clinical application.

Keywords:
Pregnant womenPremature birthProbiotic supplementationVaginal microbiota

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