Cholesterol In The First Weeks Of Pregnancy
Cholesterol levels in pregnancy are very important. In most cases, it is considered normal for cholesterol to increase by approximately 50% according to the scientific literature. This increase occurs as a consequence of the accelerated synthesis that occurs in the liver, especially during the first trimester. This increase should be monitored by the doctor, but it is an essential factor in the development of the baby.
The hormone progesterone is responsible for promoting the formation of the main organs of the fetus. Cholesterol acts in favor of progesterone during pregnancy, so it is essential.
Cholesterol is also responsible for moderating proteins like Sonic Hedgehog. These proteins participate together with progesterone in the development of organs such as the heart, lungs and brain. The excretory system, particularly the genitourinary tract, is also formed through this stimulus.
Sources of cholesterol in pregnancy
As we have said, the integral development of the fetus requires the stimulation of elements such as cholesterol. It is understood that during the first eight weeks the source to receive it is the mother, as stated in the following article published in the “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology”. That is, while the formation of the organs takes place, the mother is solely responsible for this contribution.
The baby in the womb receives cholesterol in its two densities, LDL, which is low density and HDL, high density. Both the good and the bad must be present in a balanced way in this process.
The highest level of cholesterol occurs in pregnancy around the third trimester. The researchers explain that an adjusted level needs to be maintained for the benefit of the fetus. In cases of exceeded levels, mother and child can be affected in different ways.
Damages associated with cholesterol in pregnancy
It has been shown that when the cholesterol levels in the expectant mother are low, the babies present malformations according to the scientific bibliography. The areas of the body most affected by this cause are the male genitalia, extremities and the central system.
In the early 90’s, an incidence in the appearance of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome was identified. Apparently, the children with this disease had been affected by the low cholesterol levels of the mother.
On the other hand, the formation of the fetus can also be affected when the levels are too high. For example, utero-placental arteries have been found to be affected by atherosclerosis. There is also a risk of local thrombosis and a propensity for hypercoagulability.
Cases increase
Nowadays, the cases of high cholesterol levels have increased. This pattern is due to the lifestyle of the future mother, since the diet tends to exceed the consumption of trans fats and sugars over the recommended levels. Studies indicate that today it is much more likely to find cases of high cholesterol, than low.
So it is important to balance our diet and maintain permanent control. In certain cases , doctors recommend, in addition to diet, some drugs. Currently there are different pharmacological options to address this situation without affecting mother and child.
To keep in mind!
Although high cholesterol in pregnancy tends to be considered normal, it is necessary to control that it is not exceeded. This is not a random recommendation or a situation that is not relevant. Cholesterol-related damage can be significant.
Even if you’re used to making observations about high-fat diets, balance is the most important thing in this case. Those women who adhere to strict diets also put the development of the fetus at risk. Low cholesterol levels can affect as much or more than high levels.
For these reasons a varied and balanced diet is recommended. Prioritizing the consumption of fresh products over processed ones and increasing fiber intakes will help maintain a correct lipid profile and minimize risks. In addition, these dietary guidelines must be accompanied by regular physical exercise.
