How to Avoid Early Preterm Births?

Early preterm birth (birth before 34 weeks gestation) is a serious public health issue causing highest risk of infant mortality and child disability.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplements can tackle this health issue with a dose of 1000 mg more effective for pregnant women with low DHA levels , according to a recent study by researchers from the University of Kansas and the University of Cincinnati published in the journal EClinicalMedicine.

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‘DHA supplementation prevents preterm birth.’

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"This study tells us that pregnant women should be taking DHA," said Susan E. Carlson, Ph.D., professor of nutrition in the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition in the KU School of Health Professions, co-principal investigator and first author on the study.

The participants of the study with low DHA levels the rate of early preterm birth is reduced to 2.0% from 4.0% with a DHA supplement of 1000 mg but there was no benefit of the higher dose in women with high DHA levels.

"This study is a potential game changer for obstetricians and their patients," said co-author Carl P. Weiner, M.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology and professor of integrative and molecular physiology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy.

Vaginal Progesterone Can Reduce Preterm Birth
Vaginal progesterone is effective in reducing preterm birth and neonatal morbidity and mortality in women with a mid-trimester sonographic short cervix.

Since preterm birth has negative outcomes, it is necessary for pregnant women to prevent preterm birth with reliable option like DHA supplementation.

So, women should consult the doctor to test their DHA levels during prenatal period for proper supplemental dose to prevent preterm birth.

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Source-Eurekalert

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