What maternal factors can contribute to preterm labor?

Infection and stress are significant maternal factors that can contribute to preterm labor. Infections, particularly those affecting the urogenital tract, can trigger inflammatory responses that may lead to early contractions and cervical changes. Additionally, maternal stress—whether psychological or physical—can also impact the body by increasing levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which may influence uterine activity and potentially initiate preterm labor.

The other factors mentioned, while they may have their own implications for pregnancy, are not as directly linked to preterm labor. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes or hypertension, which can affect the health of the mother and baby; however, it is not a direct cause of preterm labor. Maternal age over 35 is associated with risks like chromosomal abnormalities and pre-existing health conditions, but it does not uniformly result in preterm labor. Low levels of exercise can be related to various pregnancy complications, yet a lack of exercise alone does not necessarily trigger preterm labor in a straightforward manner. Understanding these contributing factors is crucial for assessing and managing the risk of preterm labor effectively.