Physiological Changes and Interactions Between Microbiome and the Host During Pregnancy

In recent years, it has become clear that microbiome play a variety of essential roles in human metabolism, immunity, and overall health and that the composition of these microbiome is influenced by our environment, diet, weight, hormones, and other factors. Indeed, numerous physiological and pathological conditions, including obesity and metabolic syndrome, are associated with changes in our microbiome, referred to as dysbiosis. As a result, it is not surprising that such changes occur during pregnancy, which includes substantial weight gain and significant changes in metabolism and immune defenses. The present review relates physiological changes during pregnancy to alterations in the microbial composition at various sites, including the gut, oral cavity, and vagina. Pregnancy has been linked to such microbial changes, and we believe that, in contrast to certain disease states, these microbial changes are vital for a healthy pregnancy, probably through their influence on the mother's immunological, endocrinological, and metabolic status.

Automated summary

Recent research has shown that the microbiome plays an important role in human metabolism, immunity, and overall health. The composition of the microbiome is influenced by factors such as environment, diet, weight, and hormones. During pregnancy, significant changes in weight gain and metabolism can lead to alterations in the microbiome. Understanding these microbial changes during pregnancy is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, as they may impact the mother's immune, endocrine, and metabolic status.