The reproductive tract microbiota in pregnancy

The reproductive tract microbiota plays a crucial role in maintenance of normal pregnancy and influences reproductive outcomes. Microbe-host interactions in pregnancy remain poorly understood and their role in shaping immune modulation is still being uncovered. In this review, we describe the composition of vaginal microbial communities in the reproductive tract and their association with reproductive outcomes. We also consider strategies for manipulating microbiota composition by using live biotherapeutics, selective eradication of pathogenic bacteria with antibiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation. Finally, future developments in this field and the need for mechanistic studies to explore the functional significance of reproductive tract microbial communities are highlighted.

Automated summary

The microbiota in the reproductive tract plays a crucial role in maintaining normal pregnancy and influencing reproductive outcomes, with their role in immune modulation still being uncovered. This review discusses the composition of vaginal microbial communities and their association with reproductive outcomes, as well as strategies for manipulating microbiota composition to improve reproductive outcomes. Future developments in this field and the need for mechanistic studies to explore the functional significance of reproductive tract microbial communities are also highlighted.