Vaginal flora and pregnancy complications: A narrative literature review

The vaginal microbiota is a dynamic microbial community with a crucial role in the health and homeostasis of the reproductive system, particularly during pregnancy. This literature review investigates the physiological composition and changes of the vaginal microbiome throughout pregnancy, analyzing forms of dysbiosis and their association with complications such as premature rupture of membranes, preterm birth, and preeclampsia. A systematic literature search was conducted in the main databases focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. The findings highlight the protective role of Lactobacillus species (especially L. crispatus), the importance of microbial composition stability and a possible predictive value of the microbiome in pregnancy outcomes. Understanding microbial balance during pregnancy can contribute to the improvement of obstetric care through prevention of adverse outcomes and individualized interventions.