Tag premature birth

Bacteria linked to premature birth

A major cause of premature birth - where waters break too soon, triggering labour - may be caused by specific bacteria, according to research. The findings could lead to screening and possible treatment for women at risk of early labour, says a US team. The study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, suggests certain bacteria may lead to thinning of the membranes around the baby, causing them to tear. Early rupture of membranes causes almost a third of all premature births. The membranes...

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