THE ROLE OF INFECTIOUS FACTORS IN PRETERM BIRTH

This review summarizes publications from 2021–2026 on the contribution of infection to spontaneous preterm birth. Preterm birth affects about one in ten live births worldwide, and the global rate has not measurably declined over the past decade. Intra-amniotic infection is the best-characterized cause of preterm labor, while a vaginal microbiome depleted of lactobacilli is associated with increased risk and Lactobacillus crispatus dominance with the lowest risk. Urinary tract infection, particularly chronic pyelonephritis, remains an important modifiable factor in Uzbekistan. Distinguishing microbial from sterile intra-amniotic inflammation is essential for targeted therapy.