A specific bacterial DNA signature in the vagina of Australian women in midpregnancy predicts high risk of spontaneous preterm birth (the Predict1000 study).

Background: Intrauterine infection accounts for a quarter of the cases of spontaneous preterm birth; however, at present, it is not possible to efficiently identify pregnant women at risk to deliver preventative treatments.

Objective: This study aimed to establish a vaginal microbial DNA test for Australian women in midpregnancy that will identify those at increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth.

Study Design: A total of 1000 women with singleton pregnancies were recruited in Perth, Australia.