Which factor places a pregnant client at increased risk for preterm labor?

Preterm labor is associated with a variety of risk factors, and one significant factor is periodontal disease. Research has indicated that periodontal disease can lead to systemic inflammation and the release of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins. These biological responses can increase the risk of preterm labor, as they may trigger uterine contractions or cervical changes that lead to early delivery.

Individuals with periodontal disease often have chronic infections and inflammation, which can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, addressing oral health is crucial for pregnant individuals to minimize their risk of complications such as preterm labor.

In contrast, factors like a vegetarian diet, being 25 years of age, or being of white ethnicity have not been shown to significantly impact the risk for preterm labor in the same way as periodontal disease. While diet and age may influence overall health, they do not inherently increase the risk for preterm labor as effectively as periodontal disease does.