Could a Chewing Gum in Pregnancy Help Prevent Premature Deliveries?

Gum disease has been linked to a number of systemic health concerns, including increased risk for preterm birth. A long-term 10 year study which included over 10000 women suggests that chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol during pregnancy may lower this risk. While xylitol is chemical responsible for lowering this risk, the study only looked at its use from chewing gum and not using it other forms (i.e. lozenges, rinses, drinks, etc).

The findings showed that pregnant women who chewed the gum were less likely to deliver early, as compared to women who only received education (12.6% vs 16.5%. Women even saw improvements to their overall oral health.