The Role of Infections in Preterm Labour and It’s Control: A Review

Abstract

Preterm labour (PTL) is described as the premature contraction of the uterus before 37 weeks of the gestation cycle, which could result in preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) and in most cases may lead to preterm birth. Preterm labour that results in preterm birth is a leading precursor of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Infection in the uterus occurs through the ability of pathogenic microbes to ascend from the female genital area to the uterus. Lactobacilli species constitute about 95% of the female genital normal flora. However, the invasion and colonisation of the genital area by gram-negative anaerobes have endangered the female genital area, exposing it to infection. Pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Candida albicans, adenovirus, and many more are indicated to play a role in preterm labour. The symptoms and clinical diagnosis of infections in the female genital area include itching and inflammation of the vaginal area, heavy, copious yellow-grey, fishy-smelling discharge, etc. Routine clinical investigations from the first trimester of the gestation cycle and the administration of probiotics, antibiotics, as well as proper toiletry hygiene, have contributed to reducing the prevalence of preterm labour.