Abstract
Abstract:
In the past decade, oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body's antioxidant defenses, has emerged as a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of various pregnancy complications. This condition poses significant clinical challenges, impacting maternal and fetal health. This review aims to comprehensively explore the clinical and biological implications of oxidative stress during pregnancy. It investigates how oxidative stress influences pregnancy outcomes, emphasizing its relevance in prenatal care and management. A rigorous literature review encompassed peer-reviewed journals, clinical studies, and meta-analyses examining oxidative stress in pregnancy. The analysis reveals a consistent association between oxidative stress and complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and intrauterine growth restriction. Elevated ROS levels and reduced antioxidant capacity were consistently observed in affected pregnancies, contributing to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and impaired placental function, thereby adversely affecting maternal and fetal health. Understanding the role of oxidative stress in pregnancy-related complications is crucial for developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. Highlighting the significance of antioxidant defenses in prenatal care can potentially enhance management practices and improve health outcomes for both mothers and infant.
Keywords: Oxidative stress, Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Antioxidant, Pregnancy complications and maternal health.