Maternal microbiota and metabolism during pregnancy: A prospective study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37800/RM.3.2025.436Keywords:
microbiota, pregnancy, metabolism, gestational diabetes, metabolic diseases, probiotics, preterm birthAbstract
Relevance: The maternal microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining health during pregnancy. Disruption of the maternal microbiota may lead to complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, or the risk of preterm birth.
This study aimed to investigate the association between microbiota changes and the risk of preterm birth, as well as their impact on maternal metabolism, including lipid profile and vitamin levels.
Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study including 100 pregnant women at 12-14 weeks of gestation, divided into two groups: women with normal pregnancy and a group of women with a high risk of preterm birth. A multivariate regression analysis was performed, taking into account factors such as the absence of gestational diabetes, singleton pregnancy, and the absence of chronic diseases that affect the microbiota.
Results: Vaginal microbiota changes. Preliminary results indicate that women at high risk of preterm birth exhibit a decreased proportion of Lactobacillus bacteria and an increase in anaerobic bacteria, such as Gardnerella and Atopobium. The study shows that women at high risk of preterm birth have significant changes in both microbiota composition and metabolic parameters. Disruption of vaginal microbiota and an increase in inflammatory markers correlate with changes in lipid metabolism, decreased vitamin D levels, and an increased risk of preterm birth. This highlights the importance of monitoring microbiota and metabolic parameters to prevent pregnancy complications.
Conclusion: The maternal microbiota during pregnancy has a significant impact on metabolic processes and the health of both mother and child. Maintaining a healthy microbiome can help prevent metabolic diseases and reduce the risk of complications associated with them. Further research in this area is necessary to develop more accurate recommendations for maintaining microbiota health during pregnancy and postpartum.
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