One of the challenges is the high diversity

The gap

Evidence profile

Sourced from the stated research gap and stated challenges and limitations and future-work section of the source papers, classified as general, drawn from work published between 2024 and 2026, spanning 3 journals. Those papers have been cited 98 times in total.

Supporting evidence — 4 representative gaps

• The Role of the Vaginal and Endometrial Microbiomes in Infertility and Their Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes in Light of Recent Literature (2024) · International Journal of Molecular Sciences · cited 49× · doi

  There is a lack of comprehensive knowledge on the human-associated microorganisms and their contribution to physiological states and predisposition to certain diseases. The current scientific knowledge is contradictory and shares some limitations regarding the relationship between an altered vaginal or endometrial microbiome and various gynecological and pregnancy-related conditions. The paper identifies the need for further research on the role of the vaginal and endometrial microbiomes in infertility and pregnancy outcomes.

  generalstated research gap
  Keywords: there lack comprehensive knowledge human-associated microorganisms contribution physiological
• The Role of the Vaginal and Endometrial Microbiomes in Infertility and Their Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes in Light of Recent Literature (2024) · International Journal of Molecular Sciences · cited 49× · doi

  One of the challenges is the high diversity and interpersonal variability of the vaginal and endometrial microbiomes. Another challenge is the lack of consensus on a core microbiota. The paper also identifies the challenge of distinguishing between the effects of different factors, such as age, hormonal changes, and lifestyle, on the vaginal and endometrial microbiomes.

  generalstated challenges
  Keywords: one challenges high diversity interpersonal variability vaginal endometrial
• Reproductive tract microbiota and anatomical integrity: implications for fertility, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes: a narrative review (2026) · Middle East Fertility Society Journal · doi

  This review has limitations. First, the literature was judged to be diverse in study design, population, site of sampling, technology used for sequencing, and definition of clinical outcome, making it difficult to comprehen- sively compare studies. Second, many microbiome stud- ies are observational and causality is hard to establish. Third, low-biomass niches, including the endometrium, placenta, and amniotic fluid, are highly susceptible to contamination, batch variability, and overinterpretation of microbial DNA. Fourth, antibiotic use, hormonal, sex- ual, and obstetric risk factors were poorly reported and could have confounding effects.

  generallimitationsevidence 5/5
  Keywords: review limitations first literature judged diverse design population site sampling technology used sequencing definition clinical
• Vaginal flora and pregnancy complications: A narrative literature review (2026) · Hellenic Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology · doi

  Further studies are needed to investigate the vaginal microbiome during pregnancy. The development of prevention and treatment strategies aimed at maintaining a protective microbial environment during pregnancy is necessary. The use of newer technologies such as metagenomic sequencing and artificial intelligence algorithms may contribute to a better understanding of the vaginal microbiome.

  generalfuture-work sectionevidence 4/5
  Keywords: further studies needed investigate vaginal microbiome during pregnancy

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