Influence of Modifiable Factors on the Vaginal Microbiota and Preterm Birth. Influence of Modifiable Factors on the Vaginal Microbiota and Preterm Birth

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of infant mortality and incurs billions of dollars per year in avoidable health costs. The causes of preterm birth are not well understood but are thought to originate from complex demographic, biological and behavioral factors. More recently vaginal dysbiosis - disruptions in the vaginal microbiota - have been shown to be associated with PTB. Studies have also shown that the composition and the frequency and duration of dysbiosis in the vaginal microbiota may be affected by the same demographic, biological and behavioral factors that are known predictors of preterm birth. This proposed study will examine the contribution that social and bio-behavioral factors known to be associated with PTB have on the composition of the vaginal microbiota as well as the frequency and duration of vaginal dysbiosis. The overall goal of this study is to elucidate the relationship between social and bio-behavioral factors, the vaginal... (for more see dbGaP study page.)