This project followed over 600 pregnant African American women from diverse socioeconomic (SES) strata, living in urban Atlanta, GA beginning in the 1st trimester until after delivery. We collected oral, vaginal, and gut microbiome samples in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy as well as sociodemographic data, dietary, and behavioral and hygiene data, as well as data on exposure to chronic stress included that related to racial discrimination, poverty etc. We also conducted a thorough review of the prenatal and labor and delivery records to ascertain pregnancy history (infection, antibiotic exposure etc) and birth outcomes, primarily preterm birth.
