Ferritin and Evaluation of Maternal Serum Ferritin Concentrations as a Predictor of Preterm Labour

Abstract

Preterm labour, defined as birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Multiple risk factors have been identified, including maternal infections, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies. Among these, maternal iron status has emerged as a potential determinant. Ferritin, an intracellular protein that stores and releases iron, serves as a reliable biomarker of body iron reserves. Beyond iron metabolism, ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant, rising during systemic inflammation. Several studies have suggested that both iron deficiency (low ferritin) and inflammation-related ferritin elevation may be linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm labour. Evaluating maternal serum ferritin concentrations during pregnancy may therefore provide predictive value for preterm birth risk. Establishing this relationship could support the development of cost-effective screening and early intervention strategies, ultimately improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.