CWRU researchers link mom's gum disease and her stillborn baby

Bacteria found in a mother's gum disease was linked to the death of her stillborn baby. This finding by Case Western Reserve University researchers extends further evidence that oral health is linked to overall health.

F.nuceatum

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University were able to identify a bacteria that linked the gum disease in mother to the death of her infant.

A woman from California with gingivitis and bleeding gums gave birth to a stillborn baby. CWRU researchers were able to identify the specific type of bacteria (Fusobacterium nucleatum) that is linked to oral bleeding. The bacterium can get into the blood stream. Based on postmortem testing of the baby, it was believed that this bacterium caused the death of the infant.  

A detailed article released by Case Western Reserve University is available here.

Oral health advice

This finding supports the need for good oral health among expectant mothers and those planning to start a family.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a podcast available to the public on the importance of good oral health during pregnancy. It is available at this link.