The aim of this study is to evaluate the difference of breast milk microbiota between
mothers with and without vaginal infections during pregnancy.

Evaluation of Breastmilk Microbiota as a Function for Immunity

Vaginal Infection

Breastmilk Collection

The maternal microbiota is one of the relevant factors in the development of the infant's
immune system, whereby the colonization of microbes in human begins at birth, when the
newborn baby is exposed to maternal vaginal, gastrointestinal microbiota and as well as
the microbes from the external environment. The neonatal intestine is colonized by
symbiotic bacteria can be divided into four main steps; (i) acquisition of maternal
vaginal, colonic, and skin flora at birth; (ii) introduction of oral feedings
(breastfeeding or formula feeding); (iii) weaning; and (iv) acquisition of complete adult
colonization.

Breastfeeding is associated with the protection of the infants from either infections or
infection-related conditions, such as gastroenteritis, upper and lower respiratory tract
infection, acute otitis media, urinary tract infection, neonatal septicaemia and
necrotizing enterocoltis. The protection is through the combination of action of the
breast milk components, such as maternal immunoglobulins, immunocompetent cells, or
variety of anti-microbial compounds. Besides that, breast milk also contains prebiotic
substances which may selectively stimulate the growth of limited number of beneficial
bacteria in the gut.

A total number of 100 lactating mothers are needed for this study. Subjects will be
recruited from HUSM Kubang Kerian, USM Main Campus Penang, and Institut Perubatan &
Pergigian Termaju USM Penang. The subjects will be explained on all related information
in the consent form prior to signing. The procedure of collecting sample is hands must be
washed before milk expression, and nipples are cleaned with sterile water and alcohol
swab. 15mL of fresh breast milk will be collected into a tube and stored at -20℃ until
further analyses.

Past history of vaginal Infections

Comparison of Microbiota Composition and Antimicrobial Property From Breastmilk of Mothers With and Without Pregnancy Vaginal Infections

Differences in breastmilk microbiota profiles via pyrosequencing from breastmilk of women
with or without history of vaginal infection during pregnancy

Professor

Differences in breastmilk concentrations of immunity parameters such as immunoglobulins
and cytokines from breastmilk of women with or without history of vaginal infection
during pregnancy

Differences in antimicrobial properties against vaginal pathogens using breastmilk of
women with or without history of vaginal infection during pregnancy

Lactating women with vaginal infection during pregnancy as confirmed by past medical
records

Lactating women without any vaginal infection during pregnancy

Evaluation of Breastmilk Microbiota as a Function for Immunity

About this trial

Study ID

Status

Type

Placebo

Accepting

Trial Timing

What is this trial about?

What are the participation requirements?

Locations

Location

Status