Maternal Oral Microbiota and Immune Signatures Associated With Spontaneous Labor Onset

This study investigates how the oral microbiome (the community of microorganisms living in the mouth) and immune system change around the time of spontaneous labor onset in healthy pregnant women. We will enroll 55 healthy pregnant women at full term (37 weeks or later). Participants will be divided into two groups: women who have begun labor and women who have not yet begun labor. We will collect saliva samples to analyze the oral bacteria using genetic sequencing, and collect blood and placental samples to measure immune factors (proteins that help regulate the body's immune response). By comparing the two groups, we aim to identify specific bacteria and immune factors that are associated with the start of labor. This research will help us better understand the biological processes that trigger childbirth and may contribute to improved prediction and management of labor onset.