Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) are cationic peptides of innate immune system with antiviral, antibacterial and antiprotozoal activity. AMP act as immunomodulators, promote bacterial opsonization, inhibit proteases activity, have anti-endotoxic and angiogenic effect. The review describes main types of AMPs, features of their expression in female reproductive tract depending from menstrual cycle and during pregnancy. Data about the role of AMPs in defending from sexually transmitted infections (HIV, genital herpes, HPV, gonorrhea), in pathogenesis of extrauterine pregnancy and preterm birth are described. Possibility of practical application of AMPs as alternative to antibiotics and as contraceptives is estimated.
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