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Antioxidants and Pregnancy: Impact on Maternal and Fetal Health

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Abstract

Pregnancy represents a physiological state characterized by increased metabolic demands and heightened oxidative stress, posing potential risks to both maternal health and fetal development. Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms, has been implicated in various pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and fetal developmental abnormalities. Antioxidants, a diverse group of compounds abundant in fruits, vegetables, and certain supplements, play a pivotal role in neutralizing ROS and mitigating oxidative damage. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the impact of antioxidants on maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. This paper underscores the crucial influence of antioxidants on fetal development. Antioxidants have shown promise in protecting fetal cells and tissues from oxidative damage, potentially reducing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, birth defects, and preterm birth. In conclusion, while antioxidants exhibit potential benefits in mitigating oxidative stress and NEWPORT improving pregnancy outcomes, further research is warranted to elucidate optimal dosages, potential interactions, and long-term implications. This review offers insights into the current understanding of antioxidants in pregnancy and emphasizes their significance in promoting maternal well-being and optimal fetal development.
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©Obeagu et al., 2023
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https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJBAS/2023/1.3.11111
Antioxidants and Pregnancy: Impact on Maternal and
Fetal Health
*Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu1, Getrude Uzoma Obeagu2, Joseph Obiezu
Chukwujekwu Ezeonwumelu3, Esther Ugo Alum4,5 and Okechukwu Paul-
Chima Ugwu5
1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International
University, Uganda.
2School of Nursing Science, Kampala International University, Uganda.
3Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, School of
Pharmacy, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka,
Bushenyi, Uganda.
4Department of Biochemistry, Ebonyi State, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State,
Nigeria
5Department of Publication and Extensions, Kampala International
University, Uganda.
*Corresponding authour: Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu, Department of
Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University,
Uganda.
E-mail: emmanuelobeagu@yahoo.com, obeagu.emmanuel@kiu.ac.ug,
0000-0002-4538-0161
ABSTRACT
Pregnancy represents a physiological state characterized by increased metabolic demands and heightened oxidative
stress, posing potential risks to both maternal health and fetal development. Oxidative stress, resulting from an
imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms, has been
implicated in various pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and fetal
developmental abnormalities. Antioxidants, a diverse group of compounds abundant in fruits, vegetables, and certain
supplements, play a pivotal role in neutralizing ROS and mitigating oxidative damage. This comprehensive review
aims to elucidate the impact of antioxidants on maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. This paper underscores
the crucial influence of antioxidants on fetal development. Antioxidants have shown promise in protecting fetal cells
and tissues from oxidative damage, potentially reducing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, birth defects, and
preterm birth. In conclusion, while antioxidants exhibit potential benefits in mitigating oxidative stress and
NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL AND
APPLIED SCIENCES (NIJBAS)
Volume 4 Issue 1 2023
©NIJBAS
Publicaons 2023
OPEN ACCESS
ONLINE ISSN: 2992-5797
PRINT ISSN: 2992-6122
©Obeagu et al., 2023
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License
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Page | 18
improving pregnancy outcomes, further research is warranted to elucidate optimal dosages, potential interactions,
and long-term implications. This review offers insights into the current understanding of antioxidants in pregnancy
and emphasizes their significance in promoting maternal well-being and optimal fetal development.
Keywords: Antioxidants, Pregnancy, Maternal and Fetal Health
INTRODUCTION
Pregnancy stands as a remarkable yet delicate phase in a woman's life, marked by profound physiological changes
that impact both maternal health and fetal development [1-3]. Amidst the marvel of this process lies the intricate
balance between the body's oxidative state and its defense mechanismsa balance that assumes pivotal significance
in shaping pregnancy outcomes [4-8]. Oxidative stress, arising from an overabundance of reactive oxygen species
(ROS) relative to the body's antioxidant capacity, represents a critical factor implicated in various pregnancy
complications. Conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and impaired fetal growth have
been associated with heightened oxidative stress during gestation [9-13]. The intricate dance between ROS and
antioxidants, wherein the former seeks to destabilize cellular structures and the latter acts as a protective shield,
underscores the paramount importance of understanding the role of antioxidants in pregnancy [14-16].
Antioxidants, encompassing a spectrum of compounds abundant in a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables,
and select supplements, have emerged as potential mitigators of oxidative stress, offering promise in ameliorating
adverse pregnancy outcomes [17-20]. This paper endeavors to explore the multifaceted relationship between
antioxidants and pregnancy, with a specific focus on their impact on both maternal and fetal health. By unraveling
the mechanisms through which antioxidants operate, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of their potential in
alleviating oxidative stress-associated complications and promoting favorable pregnancy outcomes. In presenting
this synthesis of knowledge, we aspire not only to shed light on the significance of antioxidants in pregnancy but
also to pave the way for future research endeavors aimed at optimizing maternal health and ensuring the optimal
development of the unborn child.
Antioxidants and Their Role in Pregnancy
Antioxidants play a crucial role in pregnancy by counteracting oxidative stress, a condition characterized by an
imbalance between the production of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to neutralize
them [21-23]. During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant physiological changes, leading to increased
metabolic activity and heightened oxidative stress. This heightened oxidative state can pose risks to both maternal
health and fetal development. Antioxidants, which include vitamins such as C and E, selenium, polyphenols, and
other micronutrients, act as scavengers of ROS, protecting cells and tissues from oxidative damage [24-27].
Antioxidants counteract the harmful effects of ROS by donating electrons or hydrogen atoms to stabilize and
neutralize these highly reactive molecules [28]. By doing so, they prevent oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and
DNA, which could otherwise lead to cellular dysfunction and tissue damage. Antioxidants contribute to maintaining
maternal health during pregnancy by potentially reducing the risk of pregnancy-related complications. Studies
suggest that adequate levels of antioxidants may help mitigate conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes,
and hypertensive disorders by regulating oxidative stress levels [29-33]. Antioxidants play a crucial role in
supporting fetal growth and development. They protect the developing fetus from oxidative damage, which could
otherwise impair cellular development and increase the risk of birth defects. Additionally, antioxidants might
contribute to reducing the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight by supporting healthy placental function [34-
38]. Some antioxidants are known for their immune-modulating properties. During pregnancy, a balanced immune
response is crucial, and certain antioxidants may help regulate immune function, supporting a healthy pregnancy
[39-43]. Oxidative stress and inflammation are interconnected processes. Antioxidants may have anti-inflammatory
properties, potentially reducing inflammation associated with pregnancy complications [44-48]. Understanding the
diverse forms and mechanisms of action of antioxidants in pregnancy is vital. However, optimal dosages, the timing
of supplementation, and potential interactions with other prenatal interventions remain areas of ongoing research
and debate. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in maintaining a balanced oxidative state during pregnancy, potentially
mitigating the risk of complications and supporting optimal maternal health and fetal development. Further research
is essential to precisely delineate the effects of various antioxidants, their synergistic actions, and their precise
implications for maternal-fetal well-being.
Effects of Antioxidants on Maternal Health during Pregnancy
The effects of antioxidants on maternal health during pregnancy are multifaceted and can influence various aspects
of a woman's well-being throughout this crucial period. Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, selenium, and
polyphenols, play a significant role in mitigating oxidative stress and potentially reducing the risk of pregnancy-
related complications [49-54]. Antioxidants act as scavengers of free radicals, reducing oxidative stress levels in
the maternal body. By doing so, they potentially mitigate the risk of complications associated with oxidative stress,
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such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus [55-57]. Preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure
during pregnancy, is among the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E
have shown promise in helping regulate blood pressure and reducing the risk of developing hypertensive disorders
[58-62]. Some antioxidants possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help modulate the inflammatory
response in pregnant women. This effect may aid in reducing inflammation associated with certain pregnancy
complications [63-66]. Maintaining a balanced immune system is crucial during pregnancy. Certain antioxidants
contribute to supporting immune function, potentially reducing the risk of infections and bolstering maternal
immunity [67-69]. Pregnancy triggers an increased metabolic demand, leading to heightened oxidative stress.
Antioxidants help mitigate the oxidative damage to maternal tissues and organs, thereby potentially reducing the
risk of tissue injury and improving overall maternal health [70-74]. Adequate antioxidant levels may play a role in
reducing the risk of preterm birth, as oxidative stress has been linked to premature labor. Antioxidants' protective
effects on placental function might contribute to a lower incidence of preterm birth [75-77]. It is important to note
that while antioxidants show promise in benefiting maternal health during pregnancy, the optimal dosages, specific
mechanisms of action, and their precise impact on various complications require further exploration through robust
clinical studies. Additionally, individual variations and interactions with other factors may influence their
effectiveness, highlighting the need for personalized approaches in prenatal care. Healthcare providers should
consider the potential benefits of antioxidants in conjunction with a balanced diet and prenatal care to support
maternal well-being throughout pregnancy.
Impact of Antioxidants on Fetal Development
The impact of antioxidants on fetal development during pregnancy is significant, as these compounds play a crucial
role in protecting the developing fetus from oxidative stress and supporting optimal growth and health [78-80].
Antioxidants act as protective agents against oxidative stress, which can otherwise harm the developing fetus. By
neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing oxidative damage to fetal cells and tissues, antioxidants
contribute to maintaining the integrity of the developing organs and preventing potential abnormalities [81-88].
The placenta plays a vital role in supplying nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. Antioxidants have been shown to
support placental health by reducing oxidative stress within the placental tissue. A healthy placenta is crucial for
optimal fetal development and growth [89-96]. Oxidative stress has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects
and developmental abnormalities in the fetus. Antioxidants help mitigate this risk by protecting against DNA
damage and cellular dysfunction, potentially reducing the occurrence of structural or functional birth defects [83].
Adequate levels of antioxidants, obtained through a balanced maternal diet or supplementation, may contribute to
normal fetal growth and development. Antioxidants support the formation and maturation of cells and tissues, aiding
in the proper development of organs and systems within the growing fetus [84]. Oxidative stress has been associated
with preterm birth. Antioxidants' ability to mitigate oxidative damage and support placental function may contribute
to reducing the risk of preterm labor and premature birth [85]. Some antioxidants, such as certain vitamins and
polyphenols, have shown potential in supporting neurodevelopment in the fetus. Their protective effects on the
developing brain cells may contribute to improved cognitive function and neurological health in the offspring. While
the potential benefits of antioxidants on fetal development are promising, the precise mechanisms, optimal dosages,
and specific effects of individual antioxidants during pregnancy need further investigation. Additionally, the timing
and duration of antioxidant supplementation and their potential interactions with other prenatal interventions
require careful consideration. Healthcare professionals often recommend maintaining a balanced diet rich in
antioxidants and nutrients, alongside prenatal care, to support optimal fetal development and reduce the risk of
complications during pregnancy.
Clinical Studies and Evidence
Clinical studies investigating the effects of antioxidants on pregnancy outcomes have provided valuable insights into
their potential benefits, though results have sometimes been varied [86-90]. Several clinical trials have explored
the role of antioxidants in reducing the risk of preeclampsia, a serious hypertensive disorder during pregnancy. Some
studies suggested that supplementation with antioxidants like vitamins C and E might lower the risk of
preeclampsia, while others found no significant preventive effect. Further research is needed to clarify their efficacy
in preventing or managing preeclampsia [87-93]. Antioxidants, particularly those with anti-inflammatory
properties, have been investigated for their potential to mitigate gestational diabetes mellitus. Some studies have
shown promising results, indicating a possible role of antioxidants in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing
inflammation, but more robust evidence is required to establish their definitive impact on gestational diabetes [89-
96]. Clinical studies exploring the relationship between antioxidants and preterm birth or low birth weight have
yielded mixed results. While some studies suggested a potential protective effect of antioxidants in reducing the risk
of preterm birth and improving birth weight, others have not consistently shown these benefits. The complexity of
factors influencing these outcomes necessitates further investigation. Research investigating the impact of
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antioxidants on fetal development has shown promising but sometimes inconclusive results. Studies examining the
effects of antioxidant supplementation on reducing the risk of birth defects, supporting neurodevelopment, and
ensuring optimal growth have provided insights but require more comprehensive and rigorous investigations to
draw definitive conclusions. It's important to note that differences in study designs, participant demographics,
dosage regimens, types of antioxidants used, and timing of supplementation contribute to the variability in outcomes
observed across studies. Moreover, individual variations in response to antioxidant interventions underscore the
need for personalized approaches in prenatal care. While some clinical evidence suggests potential benefits of
antioxidants in pregnancy, further well-designed RCTs with larger sample sizes and standardized protocols are
essential to validate their efficacy, safety, and optimal use in improving maternal and fetal health outcomes during
pregnancy.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
Emphasize a well-rounded, nutrient-rich diet that includes natural sources of antioxidants such as fruits, vegetables,
nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Encourage pregnant individuals to obtain antioxidants through dietary means
whenever possible. For individuals at risk of inadequate antioxidant intake, consider prenatal supplements
containing antioxidants, but ensure these supplements are taken under healthcare provider guidance and
supervision. The appropriate dosage and specific types of antioxidants in supplements should be determined based
on individual needs. Pregnant individuals should consult healthcare professionals before initiating any antioxidant
supplementation. Individualized recommendations based on maternal health status, dietary habits, and specific
pregnancy concerns should guide the decision-making process. Optimal timing and dosage of antioxidant
supplementation require careful consideration. Timing the intake of antioxidants during critical stages of fetal
development may be essential. Healthcare providers should provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and duration
of supplementation to avoid excessive intake, which may pose risks. Excessive intake of certain antioxidants,
especially through supplementation, might have adverse effects and interact with other medications or prenatal
vitamins. More is not necessarily better, and high doses of certain antioxidants may potentially be harmful during
pregnancy. Acknowledge individual variations in response to antioxidant supplementation. Factors such as maternal
age, preexisting health conditions, lifestyle habits, and genetic factors may influence the efficacy and safety of
antioxidants during pregnancy. A personalized approach to prenatal care is crucial. Healthcare providers should
monitor the maternal health status and fetal development regularly, especially when antioxidants are being
supplemented. Close monitoring allows for early detection of any potential complications and adjustments to the
supplementation regimen if needed. Base recommendations on the most up-to-date and credible scientific evidence
available. Encourage participation in well-designed clinical trials to contribute to advancing knowledge about the
effects of antioxidants on pregnancy outcomes. Alongside antioxidant intake, emphasize the importance of other
healthy lifestyle factors during pregnancy, such as regular exercise, adequate rest, avoidance of harmful substances
(like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption), and maintaining a healthy weight. Advocate for further research
to deepen our understanding of the precise mechanisms, optimal dosages, and long-term effects of antioxidants on
maternal and fetal health outcomes. Encourage collaboration between researchers and healthcare professionals to
generate more conclusive evidence. By incorporating these recommendations into prenatal care and decision-making
processes, healthcare providers can strive to optimize the use of antioxidants in pregnancy, aiming to promote
healthy outcomes for both mother and child while ensuring safety and effectiveness.
CONCLUSION
The intricate interplay between oxidative stress and antioxidants during pregnancy underscores their critical role
in shaping maternal and fetal health outcomes. While oxidative stress represents a natural consequence of
pregnancy, its excessive burden can lead to complications jeopardizing the well-being of both the mother and the
developing fetus. Antioxidants, encompassing a diverse array of compounds, have emerged as promising agents in
mitigating the deleterious effects of oxidative stress. Through their ability to scavenge free radicals, reduce cellular
damage, and modulate biological pathways, antioxidants offer potential benefits in supporting maternal health and
promoting optimal fetal development. While the potential benefits of antioxidants in pregnancy are promising,
further research is essential to solidify their role as a complementary strategy in prenatal care. Advancing our
understanding of antioxidants' precise mechanisms, optimizing their use, and ensuring their safety will pave the way
toward improved maternal and fetal health outcomes, fostering healthier pregnancies and better overall well-being
for generations to come.
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PRINT ISSN: 2992-6122
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©NIJBAS
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©NIJBAS
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©Obeagu et al., 2023
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CITE AS: Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu, Getrude Uzoma Obeagu, Joseph Obiezu Chukwujekwu
Ezeonwumelu, Esther Ugo Alum and Okechukwu Paul-Chima Ugwu (2023). Antioxidants and
Pregnancy: Impact on Maternal and Fetal Health.
NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF
BIOLOGICAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES 4 (1):17-25
https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJBAS/2023/1.3.11111
... Delta, 77% of pregnant women started utilizing maternal health services in the second trimester, while 21% of pregnant mothers did not seek any form of maternal health services [7]. In terms of the number of visits, in developed countries, 97% of pregnant women make at least one antenatal visit, and 99% of these pregnant women deliver with skilled birth attendants [8]. In Uganda, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and the Uganda National Household Survey (2017-2018) on their report on household income and its impact on health, 49% of pregnant women utilize maternal health services, and often two-thirds of these women deliver with unskilled birth attendants [9]. ...
... The study found that 52(46%) of pregnant women had good maternal health services utilization, while 61(54%) had poor utilization due to lack of information on available services Simkhada et al. [17]. However according to study results of Obeagu et al. [8], in developed countries, majority of the pregnant women make at least one antenatal visit and 99% of these pregnant women deliver with skilled birth attendants. Age was significantly associated with maternal health service utilization, with 30.7% of mothers aged 18-30 having good service utilization and 42.3% having good service utilization. ...
Article
Full-text available
Maternal health services (MHS) play a critical role in preventing maternal health-related complications and reducing mortality rates globally. However, despite concerted efforts to improve access to and utilization of these services, many pregnant women, particularly in low-resource settings, continue to face challenges in accessing adequate care. This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to identify the factors influencing maternal health service utilization among pregnant mothers attending Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV in the Bushenyi district of Western Uganda. A total of 113 pregnant mothers seeking maternal health care services at Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV were recruited for the study using Fischer's method for sample size determination. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and cross-tabulations, were employed to analyze the data. The findings revealed that only 46.0% of pregnant women had good maternal health service utilization, indicating a significant gap in access to and utilization of essential services. Age, education, and occupation were identified as significant demographic factors influencing maternal health service utilization. Specifically, younger mothers aged 18-30 years and those with post-primary education were more likely to utilize maternal health services effectively. Social and cultural factors, such as decision-making autonomy and spousal support, also played crucial roles in determining maternal health service utilization. Mothers who made decisions themselves and those accompanied by their husbands were more likely to seek and utilize maternal health services adequately. Furthermore, health-related factors, including proximity to health facilities and the affordability of services, significantly influenced maternal health service utilization. Mothers living within a distance of less than 2 km from health facilities and those who perceived the cost of services as manageable were more likely to utilize maternal health services effectively. In conclusion, this study underscores the multifaceted nature of factors influencing maternal health service utilization among pregnant mothers in Western Uganda. Addressing these factors, including improving education, enhancing decision-making autonomy, promoting spousal support, and ensuring affordability and accessibility of services, is crucial for enhancing maternal health outcomes and reducing maternal mortality rates in the region. Policy interventions, community outreach programs, and health system strengthening efforts are warranted to address these challenges comprehensively and improve maternal health service utilization rates in resource-limited settings.
... Antenatal care (ANC) is the care a woman receives throughout pregnancy in order to ensure that both the mother and child remain healthy. A healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy are important for the development of a healthy baby and may have long-term beneficial effects on the health of the child [2][3][4]. Early antenatal care attendance during the first three months of gestation plays a major role in detecting and treating some complications of pregnancy and forms a good basis for appropriate management during delivery and after childbirth. Failure to attend antenatal care early results in the potential for complications during pregnancy, delivery, and puerperium [5,6]. ...
Article
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Every year, around the world, maternal deaths contribute to more than half a million deaths, and of these, 99% occur in developing countries, and 286,000 are the result of complications that can be avoided through fitting antenatal care in terms of early antenatal care booking and follow-up visits as often as possible. Antenatal care (ANC) is a key preventive wellbeing benefit utilised in developed nations and around the world by providing hopeful mothers with regular health evaluations and information about the course of pregnancy, labour, birth, and parenthood. This care ought to begin from the start of pregnancy and end at delivery. This study aimed at determining the timing of the first antenatal visit, associated factors, and proportion of pregnant women who make their first antenatal visit with the recommended time among pregnant mothers attending antenatal care at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi. This was a hospital-based, cross-sectional observational and analytic study. We recruited 220 randomly selected participants from the antenatal clinic to participate in the study. Univariate analysis, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression were done using STATA version 14.0 to identify factors associated with the timing of the first antenatal visit. Odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were computed to determine the level of significance at bivariate analysis, whereas adjusted odds ratios were calculated at multivariate analysis to establish independent significant factors. The mean age of the study participants was 27 years, with a standard deviation of 6 years from the mean. The minimum age was 16 years, while the maximum age was 41 years. The mean timing of the first antenatal visit was 18 weeks. Participants who made the first ANC visit within the recommended time were 31.36% (69/220), while 68.64% (151/220) were late. Age, marital status, education level, gravidity, planned pregnancy good attitude towards ANC, perceived attitude of health workers, and waiting time were independently associated with the timing of the first antenatal visit among the study participants. The study revealed that the majority of pregnant women who visited the clinic began antenatal care later than the WHO-recommended period of within three months of pregnancy. The main reasons cited for the late start of ANC call for raising awareness of the best period to start ANC and the importance of starting ANC early.
... But there are obstacles in the way of this transformational process, and the complex interactions between different elements can lead to unfavorable consequences such as intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, and preeclampsia. Antioxidants' potential to lessen the negative effects of oxidative stress on pregnancy outcomes is one growing area of research in the field of obstetrics (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10). Numerous pregnancy issues have been linked to oxidative stress, which is caused by an imbalance between the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms and reactive oxygen species (ROS). ...
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The physiological process of pregnancy is intricate and fraught with difficulties and potential problems that may affect the health of the mother and the fetus. Owing to its capacity to counteract oxidative stress, antioxidants have drawn a lot of interest from obstetricians as possible partners in enhancing pregnancy outcomes. This study examines the body of research on the function of antioxidants in obstetrics and how they affect different elements of pregnancy. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms are out of balance, and this imbalance can lead to oxidative stress, which has been linked to harmful pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. One vital organ for fetal development, the placenta, is especially vulnerable to oxidative damage, which could result in difficulties. This review focuses on the many endogenous and exogenous sources of antioxidants as well as their methods of action in reducing oxidative stress in pregnancy. Selenium, polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, vitamins C and E, and other well researched antioxidants have demonstrated the potential to lower the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. The review also investigates the possible synergistic benefits of mixing several antioxidants for improved defense.
... But there are obstacles in the way of this transformational process, and the complex interactions between different elements can lead to unfavorable consequences such as intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, and preeclampsia. Antioxidants' potential to lessen the negative effects of oxidative stress on pregnancy outcomes is one growing area of research in the field of obstetrics (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10). Numerous pregnancy issues have been linked to oxidative stress, which is caused by an imbalance between the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms and reactive oxygen species (ROS). ...
Article
Full-text available
The physiological process of pregnancy is intricate and fraught with difficulties and potential problems that may affect the health of the mother and the fetus. Owing to its capacity to counteract oxidative stress, antioxidants have drawn a lot of interest from obstetricians as possible partners in enhancing pregnancy outcomes. This study examines the body of research on the function of antioxidants in obstetrics and how they affect different elements of pregnancy. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms are out of balance, and this imbalance can lead to oxidative stress, which has been linked to harmful pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. One vital organ for fetal development, the placenta, is especially vulnerable to oxidative damage, which could result in difficulties. This review focuses on the many endogenous and exogenous sources of antioxidants as well as their methods of action in reducing oxidative stress in pregnancy. Selenium, polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, vitamins C and E, and other well-researched antioxidants have demonstrated the potential to lower the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. The review also investigates the possible synergistic benefits of mixing several antioxidants for improved defense.
... It is accompanied by proteinuria of ≥ 300 mg/24 hours and other features such as oedema. [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Pre-eclempsia is a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure. Pre-eclampsia usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in a woman whose blood pressure had been normal. ...
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The present study assessed the haemostatic parameters in preeclampsia subjects in Aba, Abia state Nigeria. A total of sixty subjects between the ages of eighteen to forty-four years were used for this study. Thirty were preeclampsia subjects who were medically diagnosed while thirty were apparently healthy individuals who served as control subjects. Platelet count (PLC), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and fibrinogen were determined. The results were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Probability value P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was lower mean SD in platelet count (235.17±32.99 ×10 9 /L versus 260.27± 35.82 ×10 9 /L for control), and fibrinogen levels (224.47±16.95 mg/dl versus 214.37 ± 14.63 mg/dl) in the preeclampsia subjects in comparison with their control values in this study. There was no significant difference between the prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time of the preeclampsia subjects and the control. The mean values of platelets count significantly decreased with increased pregnancy duration, 269.40±36.66 ×10 9 /L, 222.70±11.93 ×10 9 /L and 213.40±4.50 ×10 9 /L for first, second, and third trimesters respectively. There was a significant decrease in the platelet count as the ages of the preeclampsia subjects increased (268.00±13.54, 233.94±24.49 and 203.57±17.30 ×10 9 /L for 18-24 years, 25-34 years and 35-44 years respectively). Low levels of these haemostatic parameters can lead to ineffective hemostasis, inability to control hemorrhage, inhibited blood supply to vital organs and severe blood loss (haemorrhage) which can result to increased bleeding time, hemophilia, thrombocytopenia and may also lead to death.
... Antenatal care is a planned program for the management of pregnant women directed towards making pregnancy and labour a safe and satisfying experience [1,2]. Pregnancy is an important time to promote good health and prepare women and their families psychologically and emotionally for parenthood [3][4][5]. ANC can be defined as care provided by skilled healthcare professionals to pregnant women and adolescent girls in order to ensure the best health conditions for both the mother and baby during pregnancy. Antenatal care is one of the "four pillars" of safe motherhood initiatives to promote and establish good health during pregnancy and the early postpartum period [6][7][8]. ...
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Antenatal care (ANC) was a key strategy towards improving maternal and child health. A recent survey data from sub-Saharan Africa has however shown that most women only initiated ANC after the first trimester and did not achieve the recommended number of visits. This study aimed to determine the completion rate of four ANC visits and factors associated with failed completion of four ANC visits among women delivering at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, eastern Uganda (JRRH). A cross-sectional study design was conducted from February 2021 to April 2021. A total of 355 pregnant women at term admitted at the maternity ward of JRRH were consecutively enrolled. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to obtain data. Descriptive statistics followed by binary logistic regression were conducted. The variables in the final multivariate model were significant when p˂0.05. All data analyses were conducted using STATA 14.2. Of the 355 pregnant women recruited into the study, 98(27.6%) had completed a minimum of four ANC visits. Maternal age below 20 years (aOR=2.4, 95%CI: 1.61-5.21, p<0.0001*) and a distance of more than four kilometres were independently associated with failure to complete four antenatal care visits (aOR=4, 95%CI: 1.33-7.19; p=0.031*). A significant number of women do not complete the recommended minimum of four antenatal care visits in this setting. Young pregnant women and those without public health facilities within a distance of less than four kilometres are likely not to complete the recommended four antenatal care visits in this setting. Strategies aimed at enhancing the accessibility of healthcare services are very crucial. Health Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) messages targeting teenage mothers are key to increasing ANC completion rates.
... A few benefits of receiving proper prenatal care are educating women about exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding techniques, lowering the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child, and being aware of postpartum symptoms [18][19][20][21]. This study aimed to assess the factors influencing the successful implementation of antenatal care services in selected health Centre IV's in Jinja district eastern Uganda. ...
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Maternal mortality is a global public health issue, with an estimated 830 women dying daily due to pregnancy and childbirth-related causes, primarily in the developing world. The use of antenatal care from trained providers is crucial to monitor pregnancy and reduce morbidity and mortality risks for both mother and child during pregnancy and delivery. A prospective descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among health workers in five health Centre IVs in Jinja district, eastern Uganda. The study found that only 17.65% of antenatal care services were implemented fairly. Factors influencing successful implementation included service duration above five years, formal training on implementing guidelines and having facility interventions in place. Factors such as seeing 30 or fewer antenatal clients on each clinic day, not attending antenatal reproductive health training, not having knowledge of antenatal care guidelines, and not using antenatal care guidelines also influenced successful implementation. However, these factors did not show statistical significance in logistic regression analysis. More efforts are needed to improve antenatal service implementation among healthcare providers to achieve the new WHO antenatal care model for a positive pregnancy experience.
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Introduction: Postdated pregnancies have been shown for centuries in several studies of having increased risk to the mother and their fetus when compared to term pregnancies with complications increasing with increase in gestational age beyond 40 weeks. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors influencing early neonatal adverse outcomes among women with postdate pregnancies delivering at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study employed simple random sampling among 108 pregnant postdated mothers admitted in labour in maternity ward at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. Results: From total respondents, 58 (53.7%) mothers had babies with neonatal complications with confidence interval of (53.4-61.6). Majority 14 (24.1%) of women revealed that they had meconium aspiration while the least 3 (5.2%) had Low birth weight complications.Statistically significantly factors associated with early neonatal adverse outcomes among women with postdated pregnancies at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital included age group 25-29 years of age (OR =5.73: 95%CI, 2.31-28.4: P<0.001), no educational background (OR=3.29: 95%CI, 1.94-5.57: P<0.001), being a single women (OR=2.61: 95%CI, 0.77-8.85: P=<0.001), smoking (OR=4.36: 95%CI, 3.18-29.63: P=<0.001), gravity of 4 and above (OR=7.93: 95%CI, 0.55-38.33: P<0.001), ANC between 1 to 2 times (OR=3.81: 95%CI, 0.57-29.01: P=0.004), and previous postdated pregnancy (OR=10.47: 95%CI, 7.69-14.26: P=<0.001). Conclusion: In conclusion, with good antenatal care and multidisciplinary approach, HIV-infected women can ensure quality care of mothers and newborns.