Placental microbiota and its role in the development of intra-amniotic infection

Abstract

Microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity and subsequent infection process are the leading cause of adverse pregnancy and postpartum outcomes. Intra-amniotic infection can be caused by both pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms and viruses, but in the vast majority of cases, intra-amniotic infection is associated with the normal microflora of different body sites. In this review article, the current literature data on the role of the placental microbiota in the adverse pregnancy outcomes and on the sources and mechanisms of intra-amniotic infection are summarized.