Scientists have made a discovery that may help diagnose those at risk of pre-term labour.

 

The study, which was published in Scientific Reports, shares the news that scientists have found a difference between the cervical mucus in women who carry to term and women who deliver before 37 weeks.

 

Cervical mucus plays a huge role when a couple is trying to conceive. Its main function is to protect and nourish sperm as it makes its way through the female reproductive tract to the egg.

 

The researchers explained: "During a healthy pregnancy, cervical mucus forms a compact, protective 'plug' between the sterile uterus and the colonised vagina, selectively permitting the passage of desirable agents such as nutrients, gases, and immunological factors, while excluding potentially deleterious environmental particles and pathogens."

 

During their study, they tested the cervical mucous of three groups of women. One group was made up of 20 non-pregnant women.aged between 18 and 45, who were ovulating.  A second group was made up of 22 minimal risk, mums-to-be. And the final group consisted of 16 patients who were at an elevated risk of pre-term labour.

 

They discovered the cervical mucus of the women at a higher risk of pre-term labour was more ‘leaky’ than those who give birth after 37 weeks.

 

 

This means these women have a higher chance of being infected by harmful bacteria and microbes, which can cause infections, that can result in early labour.

 

It is not yet known if this discovery will play a key role in determining those who are at risk of pre-term labour, but scientists have stated that “our findings clearly demonstrate that the biophysical and biochemical properties of cervical mucus from women who deliver preterm are significantly different from those who carry to term."

 

Pre-term labour affects 18 percent of women across the globe and is the main cause of neonatal death. Labour is considered premature if it occurs three weeks before your due date.

 

"At present, there is a critical clinical need for predictive diagnostic tools and biomarkers for preterm birth," they say. They’re hoping this current information will help uncover women at risk of pre-term labour.

 

The scientists believe this study will help them figure out a way to make improvements to the cervical mucous.

 

“If the mucus is thinner or less adhesive than it naturally is, then we can begin to think about factors to add so that we improve its barrier properties.”

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