Role of Placental Health in Determining Future Fertility

Dr Meghana Nyapathi

A placenta is actively involved in transporting nutrients to the fetus. It has both direct and indirect effects on fetal cardiovascular functioning and has an endocrine influence on the mother and fetus. As such, a properly functioning placenta is crucial for normal fetal development and plays a central role in mediating effects of the maternal environment on the fetus. However, its impact extends beyond the current pregnancy, influencing future fertility and long-term health outcomes.

Research suggests that placental health can have a lasting impact on reproductive and overall health, making it essential to understand the factors that affect placental development and function. It can help identify strategies to promote placental health, reduce the risk of pregnancy complications and support long-term fertility and well-being.

Placental Health and Fertility

Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes

Preterm birth and low birth weight baby: Placental abnormalities can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight of the baby.

Preeclampsia and gestational diabetes: Unhealthy placenta can contribute to the development of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.

Fetal growth restriction: Placental insufficiency can lead to fetal growth restriction, affecting the baby’s development.

Long-term Effects on Fertility

Increased risk of infertility: Women with a history of placental abnormalities may be at higher risk of secondary infertility.

Higher risk of pregnancy complications: Placental insufficiency can be one of the reasons for increased risk of pregnancy complications in future pregnancies.

Link to chronic diseases: Studies have shown a link between placental health and the development of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, later in life.

Many factors that the influence the health of placenta, include:

• Ethnicity
• History of smoking
• High blood pressure
• Multiple gestation
• Stress and Anxiety
• History of uterine surgery, such as a cesarean delivery, adenomyomectomy, etc.
• Maternal substance abuse
• Maternal age, as women over the age of 40 years have a higher risk of developing placental problems.

Medical conditions and Treatments

• In-vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF can increase the risk of placental abnormalities and pregnancy complications.
• Abdominal trauma, such as from a fall or blunt trauma
• Premature rupture of membranes, because the risk of placental problems increases when the amniotic sac ruptures too early.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension , autoimmune diseases and diabetes can impact placental health.
• Infections and inflammation: Infections and inflammation can affect placental development and function.

Taking care of your placenta

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Balanced Diet and Nutrition: Focus on whole, nutrient dense foods to support placental health.

Regular Exercise and Stress Management: Engage in regular physical activity and practice stress-reducing techniques.

Avoiding Environmental Toxins: Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants.

Regular Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal check-ups can help monitor placental health and detect any potential issues.

Placental Functional Tests: In some cases, placental function tests may be recommended to assess placental health.

Addressing Underlying Medical Conditions: Managing pre-existing medical conditions can help promote placental health.

Dr. Meghana Nyapathi is Consultant – Reproductive Medicine, Milann Fertility Hospital, Bengaluru