The researchers discovered that amongst 365 pregnant girls, the check helped spot these at larger danger of preterm delivery. General, 73 girls delivered prematurely, and those that’d proven altering and various vaginal microbiomes, together with irritation, have been at elevated danger.
The findings have been revealed on-line not too long ago within the journal Nature Communications.
Extra analysis is required earlier than the check turns into obtainable. MacIntyre stated his crew is working to enhance its efficiency, and make the testing gadget possible for “bedside” use — by miniaturizing and automating it.
What might be performed when girls are discovered to be at heightened danger of preterm delivery?
Presently, MacIntyre stated, two choices can be found to curb the chance: the hormone progesterone, which may delay delivery in some circumstances; and, in girls with weak point within the cervix, inserting a sew to assist hold it closed.
However it’s additionally useful to know when a lady is at heightened danger so her obstetrician can monitor her extra carefully, stated Stacey Stewart, president and CEO of the March of Dimes, which helped fund the analysis.
Stewart known as the brand new check “an enormous step ahead” — but in addition famous that there will not be any single “silver bullet” reply to the issue of preterm delivery.
There are numerous danger components for early supply, Stewart identified. They embody having a historical past of preterm delivery or lower than 18 months between pregnancies; well being situations like high blood pressure and diabetes; and way of life habits like smoking and substance abuse.
Past that, there are social and financial components. Ladies with low incomes, lack of prenatal care, or publicity to persistent stress or home abuse are at heightened danger.
In america, Stewart stated, girls of coloration are disproportionately affected: Virtually 17% of Black infants are born preterm annually, in accordance with the March of Dimes.
Whereas researchers work on assessments to raised determine girls in danger and perceive the exact causes of preterm delivery, Stewart stated girls can take steps to assist a wholesome being pregnant.
Ideally, she stated, they need to work with their well being care supplier to get any persistent well being situations underneath management earlier than being pregnant. And as quickly as a lady is aware of she’s pregnant, she ought to search prenatal care.
