Oxidative Stress during the Various Trimesters of Pregnancy in Humans

Abstract

Oxidative stress during the various trimesters of pregnancy in humans was investigated. Venous blood was taken from 30 pregnant women, comprising 10 each at first, second and third trimesters. Additionally, blood was taken from 10 non-pregnant women, and was used as control. The plasma was quickly extracted and assayed for triglyceride, glucose, protein and cholesterol. The plasma lipid peroxidation level and catalase activity were determined. Results of the study showed that the plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy were significantly (p<0.01) higher than in the 1st trimester in pregnant women and the control. Plasma glucose and protein concentrations were significantly (p<0.01) higher in the 1st trimester of pregnancy and in the control than in the 2nd or 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. The plasma lipid peroxidation level and catalase activity were significantly (p<0.01) increased in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy as compared to the first trimesters of pregnancy or control. Data of the study indicate that oxidative stress is more vulnerable especially during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. Increased levels of plasma lipid peroxidation and catalase activity during 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy was probably as a result of oxidative damage of maternal lipids and proteins and carbohydrates.


Key Words: Oxidative Stress, Trimesters in pregnancy, Blood chemistry and Lipid peroxidation, Catalase.


Nig. J Health and Biomed. Sciences Vol.2(2) 2003: 61-64