CHICAGO, July 3 (UPI) -- Chilean scientists say oral bacterial associated with periodontal disease has been discovered in the amniotic fluid of some pregnant women.
Dr. Jorge Gamonal of the University of Chile said the study involved the evaluation of 26 pregnant women with a diagnosis of threatened premature labor. The researchers found P. Gingivalis in both the mouth and amniotic fluid of 30 percent of the women tested.
Amniotic fluid is a liquid that surrounds a fetus during pregnancy. Any disruptions to the amniotic fluid, such as a bacterial infection, could potentially be dangerous to both the mother and baby.
Dr. Preston Miller Jr., president of the American Academy of Periodontology, noted that while the study didn't show a direct causal relationship between periodontal diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes, it is still important for women to pay special attention to their oral health during pregnancy.
"Woman who are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant should speak with their dental and healthcare professionals about their oral health during pregnancy," he said.
The study is reported in the July issue of the Journal of Periodontology.
