Abstract

Pregnancy is a physiologically demanding phase marked by profound changes that elevate oxidative stress levels,
posing potential risks to maternal and fetal health. Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between reactive
oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms, has been implicated in various pregnancy
complications. Antioxidants, renowned for their ability to counteract ROS and mitigate cellular damage, have
emerged as a potential intervention to ameliorate adverse outcomes during pregnancy. The paper highlights the
physiological changes in pregnancy that contribute to heightened oxidative stress, emphasizing the link between
oxidative stress and complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and intrauterine
growth restriction. This paper emphasizes the imperative for robust, well-designed clinical trials to elucidate the
optimal timing, dosages, and formulations of antioxidants in pregnancy. It calls for a comprehensive approach to
establish clear guidelines and recommendations for antioxidant supplementation. In conclusion, this review
underscores the potential of antioxidants as a promising intervention to mitigate oxidative stress-related pregnancy
complications. However, the inconclusive nature of current evidence necessitates further rigorous research
endeavors. Through this exploration, it accentuates the urgency for standardized protocols, ethical considerations,
and extensive clinical studies to unlock the full potential of antioxidants in improving maternal and fetal health
outcomes during pregnancy.
Keywords: Antioxidants, Pregnancy, Maternal Health, Fetal Health, Oxidative Stress, Reactive Oxygen Species
(ROS), Preeclampsia, Gestational Diabetes, Fetal Development