Infection and preterm birth.

As many as 50% of spontaneous preterm births are infection-associated. Intrauterine infection leads to a maternal and fetal inflammatory cascade, which produces uterine contractions and may also result in long-term adverse outcomes, such as cerebral palsy. This article addresses the prevalence, microbiology, and management of intrauterine infection in the setting of preterm labor with intact membranes. It also outlines antepartum treatment of infections for the purpose of preventing preterm birth.