Microbiome of pregnancy (literature review)

Background. Pregnancy represents a unique immunological and physiological period during which microbial communities can have a significant impact on both maternal health and birth outcomes. Hormonal, immunological, and metabolic changes during pregnancy influence the microbiome and clinical outcomes, potentially impacting the well-being of both mother and child.

Objective: generalization of modern scientific concepts about the relationship between the composition of the mother’s microbiota during pregnancy and its complications, discussion of the possibility of predicting pregnancy complications using the microbiome.

Materials and methods. An extensive literature review was conducted using the MEDLINE (PubMed) database as of December 2024 with the following keywords and filter: randomized controlled trial, meta-analysis, systematic review.

Research results: Extensive research links the dominance of certain Lactobacillus strains to different pregnancy outcomes, with L. cripatus being the most favorable strain. Only by existing in a normal symbiotic relationship between the organism and the microbiome is it possible to maintain homeostasis. Any shift in the balance in this system leads to the growth of opportunistic flora, which in turn triggers a cascade of immunological and physiological disorders. GDM, PCOS, premature birth — these conditions have features of the vaginal microbiocenosis.

Conclusion. The microbiome composition of the female reproductive tract and intestine is dynamic during pregnancy and is influenced by a number of factors. More evidence suggests that dysbiosis is associated with various adverse pregnancy outcomes. Knowledge of the microbiome composition has the potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, develop targeted interventions, and reduce the risk of perinatal complications.

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