Evidence for Role of Genital Mycoplasmas in Preterm Birth and Neonatal Lung Injury

Abstract

Although the genital mycoplasmas are common commensals in the vaginal flora of up to 80% of women, these organisms have been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. These outcomes include chorioamnionitis, preterm premature rupture of the membranes (pPROM), preterm birth, and altered lung development contributing to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants with respiratory infection. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the evidence supporting a causal role of these organisms in these adverse outcomes and controversies, including whether treatment of affected pregnant women or their infants is warranted.