During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes many changes aimed at providing the necessary conditions for the growth and development of the fetus. Fertilization of the ovum by a sperm leads to the beginning of the processes of embryogenesis. The fertilized egg begins active division to form a blastocyst, after which it implants in the endometrium of the uterus. This leads to changes in the layers of the uterus to ensure the efficient growth and development of the embryo, as well as providing barrier functions against multiple immunological processes.
Then the release of human chorionic gonadotropin begins, which allows the pregnancy to be maintained. At this stage, the formation of layers in the blastocyst begins. Then the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm are formed, with which the blastocyst turns into an embryo. With it, processes of organogenesis begin, in which the main organs and systems are formed.
Within eight weeks after implantation of the fertilized egg – 10 weeks of gestation – the embryo is already called a fetus until birth. Gestation duration, from nesting to birth, averages 266 days. When calculating the term according to the date of the beginning of the last menstruation, the duration of pregnancy is considered to be 280 days.
The placenta produces human placental lactogen, which is important in ensuring the flow of nutrients to the fetus. It stimulates the processes of fat breakdown and increases the concentration of free fatty acids, which are the main energy source. It also acts as an insulin antagonist, thereby preventing diabetes-like conditions. In the early stages of pregnancy, insulin sensitivity improves, and subsequently, in the second and third trimesters, it deteriorates and insulin resistance occurs.
Cholesterol and triglyceride levels rise due to increased synthesis in the liver and decreased activity of lipoprotein lipase. Levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol rise, while those of “good” HDL cholesterol fall toward the third trimester. Elevation of triglycerides is important to meet the metabolic and energy needs of the mother, thereby providing a preferential supply of glucose to the fetus. High levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol are important for the normal course of placental steroidogenesis – the release of steroid hormones.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are involved in many key processes in the body, including regulating inflammation. These processes are of key importance during the three phases of pregnancy. During the first stage – the first and second trimester, the implantation of the fetus and the formation of the placenta take place. In this phase, inflammation ensures the formation of the fetoplacental barrier.
Towards the middle of pregnancy, the growth of the fetus is ensured in an environment with anti-inflammatory conditions. In the late stages of pregnancy, inflammation favors the mother’s preparation for labor.
Obtaining fatty acids such as linolenic and alpha-linolenic acids through the diet is key. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of Omega-3 during pregnancy. These fatty acids have been found to contribute to the proper development of the fetal nervous system and retina. In addition, Omega-6 accumulates in the brain and is also important for its development. The metabolism of Omega-3 ensures the production of anti-inflammatory mediators, while the metabolism of Omega-6 leads to the accumulation of pro-inflammatory molecules – eicosanoids.
Vitamin B9 also called folic acid, is important for the proper functioning of several organs and systems. Folic acid is necessary during pregnancy as it is essential for fetal development. Studies even show that folic acid intake improves reproductive health.
Vitamin B9 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for cell growth and the production of genetic material, including DNA. Folic acid is involved in the production of red and white blood cells, in the renewal of the skin and the intestinal wall, as well as in the synthesis of chemical substances that modulate brain functions. At the very beginning of pregnancy, folic acid plays a major role in the formation of the embryo’s nervous system. Folic acid cannot be synthesized by the human body and must therefore be obtained from food.
During pregnancy, the need for folic acid increases significantly. Vitamin B9 is essential to ensure the development of the fetal neural tube, which corresponds to the development of the spinal cord and the formation of a healthy nervous system. During pregnancy, it is important to obtain the necessary levels of folic acid to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and in particular the development of spina bifida – incomplete development of the spine. By taking folic acid, very serious malformations of the brain and skull can be prevented. Folic acid also ensures good fetal growth during the first trimester of pregnancy.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3218540/
https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11010171
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/1/171
