Ureaplasma urealyticum cervical colonization as a marker for pregnancy complications.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the clinical significance of cervical colonization with (Ureaplasma urealyticum (Uu) and its possible relationship to pregnancy outcome.

METHODS

Cervical cultures for Uu and serum antibodies to Uu were determined in four groups of pregnant women: (1) 117 women who underwent mid-trimester amniocentesis; (2) 47 women with preterm labor and intact membranes; (3) 34 women with preterm premature rupture of membranes; and (4) a control group of 315 healthy women with normal pregnancies. Statistical methods used were the chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

A significant increase in the cervical colonization rate with Uu was detected in all study groups (62%, 77% and 74%, respectively) when compared with the control group (42%). Women at mid-trimester of pregnancy with a positive cervical culture and high levels of antibodies, had a higher rate of pregnancy complications than those with a negative culture and absence of antibodies (62 vs. 28%, respectively; P = 0.0006).

CONCLUSION

Cervical colonization with Uu when associated with elevated titers of antibodies to Uu, may serve as a marker for the identification of a subpopulation of women who are at high risk for the development of pregnancy complications.