早發性分娩是引發早產最常見的原因，有鑒於早產是孕產期照護的棘手問題，截至目前尚無治療早產的有效措施。孕期壓力是引發早發性分娩的危險因素，本文目的在於探討壓力引發早發性分娩的機制，包括可能的神經、內分泌因素及早發性分娩的生理學機制。經整合相關文獻後，描繪出在壓力狀態下，神經系統與內分泌系統如何運作並導致早發性分娩症狀產生。雖然子宮收縮的生理機轉尚未完全清楚，本文乃藉由壓力引發早發性分娩機轉的建立，以為日後進一步發展壓力緩解介入措施之基礎，期能避免早產發生，提升孕婦與新生兒健康。

Most preterm births are caused by spontaneous preterm labor. Although preterm births are a serious problem, no effective means to prevent them exist at present. Maternal stress is a risk factor of preterm labor. The purpose of this study is to explore the mechanisms of preterm labor associated with maternal stress, including possible neurological, endocrinal, and physiological mechanisms. In addition, the physiological mechanisms of uterine contractions in labor are not clearly understood. Establishing the mechanisms of preterm labor is the base for developing stress management procedures for preventing preterm births and improving maternal and neonatal health.