Obesity’s Impact on Placenta Structure and Function Explored

Published on February 28, 2023

The placenta, like a grocery store for the baby during pregnancy, can be affected by a mother’s obesity. Recent research shows that obesity can change the structure of this vital organ more than gestational diabetes. Understanding these changes could provide clues to improving outcomes for both mother and baby. By identifying specific alterations in the placenta, scientists may be able to develop targeted treatments or screening tests to enhance health outcomes. This is especially important in low-middle income countries where access to quality healthcare may be limited. Exploring the effects of maternal obesity on the placenta opens up possibilities for interventions that could have far-reaching benefits. To learn more, check out the fascinating research behind this discovery!

Maternal obesity alters the structure of the placenta (a vital organ that nourishes the baby during pregnancy) more than gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM; a condition is diagnosed by poor glucose control in pregnancy). The new insight enhances understanding about the mechanisms underlying poor pregnancy outcomes and the subsequent greater risk of poor neonatal and offspring health. The identification of specific changes in the placenta could lead to the potential development of future placenta-targeted treatments or screening tests that may improve the health outcomes of the mother and offspring, particularly in low-middle income countries.

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