Silent Intruders How Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma Shape Pregnancy Outcomes (Prospective Study in Kosovo) - Abstract
Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma are atypical microorganisms classified as intracellular bacteria. Their ability to survive and replicate within host cells enables them to evade immune responses. These microorganisms are associated with urogenital tract infections, which can contribute to complications during pregnancy, including preterm labor. Often underestimated, these infections require thorough evaluation for effective pregnancy management.This prospective study was conducted at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo in 2024 and involved 7654 births, of which 819 were preterm. Patients were diagnosed with Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma infections through culture methods and PCR. The distribution of infections was analyzed based on previous abortions, WBC and CRPlevels in mothers and newborns, newborn weight, and the stages of preterm birth categorized by gestational days. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of these microorganisms on preterm labor and birth outcomes. Among the participants, 73 pregnant women tested positive for these bacteria; for comparison, 73 women who tested negative were selected to assess differences in preterm birth and pregnancy outcomes.