Can Cellular Stress and Environmental Factors Trigger Preterm Labor?
Yes, cellular stress and environmental factors can significantly contribute to preterm labor. Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, can damage cellular components and activate inflammatory pathways. High levels of oxidative stress are associated with preterm labor.
Environmental factors such as infection, smoking, and poor nutrition can exacerbate cellular stress and inflammation. Infections, particularly intrauterine infections, activate the maternal immune response, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators that can trigger preterm labor.
