The role of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma in adverse pregnancy outcomes

Abstract

Genital mycoplasmas are frequently found in the vaginal flora across socioeconomic and ethnic groups and have been demonstrated to be involved in adverse perinatal outcomes. Both Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp cause inflammation potentially leading to spontaneous preterm birth and PPROM as well as postdelivery infectious complications and neonatal infections. Herein we have provided an overview of the existing literature and supportive evidence for genital mycoplasma's role in perinatal complications. Future research will need to focus on clearly delineating the species, allowing for discrimination of their effects.

Keywords: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia; Chorioamnionitis; Endometritis; Genital mycoplasma; Mycoplasma; Preterm birth; Ureaplasma.