Maternal periodontitis as a risk factor for preterm birth: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Periodontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth is a major global health concern, with significant incidence in Pakistan.
• Periodontal diseases are implicated as a potential risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth.
• Existing research on the association between maternal oral infections and preterm birth presents conflicting findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between periodontal disease and preterm birth in pregnant women.
• To assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal infections among postpartum women.
• To clarify the relationship between maternal oral health and preterm delivery outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with 400 postpartum women aged 18-40.
• Data on periodontal health were collected using the extent and severity index via structured questionnaires.
• Statistical analysis included frequency tables and chi-squared tests to determine associations.

Main Results:

• Over 87% of participants exhibited generalized periodontitis, with 68% having moderate severity.
• No significant difference in the extent of periodontitis was observed between preterm and full-term birth groups.
• A statistically significant difference in the severity of periodontitis was found between mothers delivering preterm and those delivering full-term.

Conclusions:

• The majority of pregnant women in the study presented with generalized periodontitis.
• The severity of maternal periodontitis showed a significant association with preterm births.
• Maternal age and pregnancy complications were not found to be associated with preterm birth in this cohort.