Pregnancy Loss and Preterm Labor

Rural stillbirth rates exceeded urban stillbirth rates in the study. The study defined stillbirth as pregnancy loss from 28 weeks of gestation until delivery. The scientific evidence connecting gut-derived endotoxemia to recurrent pregnancy loss is well-established. An Italian research group confirmed elevated endotoxin levels and inflammatory markers in endometrial fluid, providing direct evidence linking gut-derived LPS to uterine pathology. Endotoxemia inflames the endometrium and cervix, causing premature cervical relaxation, which is a primary driver of preterm labor. Endotoxemia is implicated in miscarriage, stillbirth, and patterns of four or more consecutive pregnancy losses. Premature delivery at 28 weeks commonly reaches $1 million in hospital costs and results in lifelong neurological, immunological, and psychological impairments.