The Role of the Placenta in Pregnancy: Its Importance and How to Nourish It
The Placenta
The placenta begins to form shortly after fertilisation and attaches to the uterine wall, connecting to the baby via the umbilical cord. It acts as a critical interface between mother and baby, supporting the pregnancy in several ways:
Oxygen and Nutrient Supply:
The placenta transfers oxygen and essential nutrients (like glucose, amino acids, and fats) from the mother’s bloodstream to the baby, ensuring healthy growth and development.
Waste Removal:
It removes waste products, such as carbon dioxide and urea, from the baby’s blood, passing them back into the mother’s bloodstream for elimination.
Hormone Production:
The placenta produces key hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone, and oestrogen, which support the pregnancy and prepare the body for childbirth.
Immune System Support:
It acts as a barrier, protecting the baby from harmful substances while allowing antibodies to pass through, boosting the baby’s immune system.
Temperature Regulation:
The placenta helps maintain a stable environment for the baby by regulating temperature and amniotic fluid levels.
Why Is the Placenta So Important?
The placenta is essential for the baby’s development and the mother’s health during pregnancy. It ensures that the baby receives the nutrients and oxygen needed to grow, while also supporting maternal well-being by maintaining hormonal balance. A healthy placenta contributes to a smoother pregnancy and reduces the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
Potential Issues with the Placenta
While most pregnancies progress without complications, certain conditions can affect the placenta’s function. Being aware of these issues can help ensure timely medical attention if needed:
Placenta Previa:
This occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. It can cause bleeding during pregnancy and complications during delivery, often requiring a caesarean section.
Placental Abruption:
A serious condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery. This can lead to severe bleeding and jeopardise the baby’s oxygen supply.
Placental Insufficiency:
When the placenta doesn’t provide enough oxygen or nutrients to the baby, leading to growth restrictions (intrauterine growth restriction, IUGR).
Retained Placenta:
After delivery, if the placenta or part of it remains in the uterus, it can lead to infection or heavy bleeding.
Placenta Accreta Spectrum:
A condition where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall, which may cause complications during delivery.
If you experience symptoms like vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or reduced baby movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
How to Nourish and Support the Placenta
Taking care of your placenta begins with prioritising your overall health during pregnancy. Here are the best ways to nourish and support this vital organ:
1. Maintain a Balanced Diet
A nutrient-rich diet is essential for placental health and optimal function. Focus on:
Iron-Rich Foods: Helps increase blood flow to the placenta. Include leafy greens, lean meats, lentils, and fortified cereals.
Protein: Essential for placental and baby growth. Incorporate eggs, fish, poultry, and plant-based proteins like beans and nuts.
Healthy Fats: Supports brain development and nutrient absorption. Choose avocados, nuts, seeds, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon.
Antioxidants: Protect the placenta from oxidative stress. Include berries, citrus fruits, and brightly coloured vegetables.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to maintain healthy blood flow to the placenta.
2. Exercise Safely
Regular, moderate exercise, like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, improves circulation, ensuring the placenta receives adequate oxygen and nutrients. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy.
3. Avoid Harmful Substances
Smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs can negatively impact placental function and harm your baby. Minimise exposure to environmental toxins.
4. Monitor and Manage Stress
High stress levels can impact placental health by affecting blood flow. Practise relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to keep stress under control.
5. Attend All Prenatal Appointments
Regular check-ups allow healthcare providers to monitor the placenta’s position and function, ensuring any issues are identified and managed early.
6. Get Enough Rest
Adequate sleep is crucial for overall maternal health, which in turn supports placental function. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night, and consider naps if needed. We do realise that this is not always possible, particularly with other children about and the insomnia that you might experience in the third trimester.
Key Nutrients for Placental Health
Wild Nutrition Pregnancy Supplement
Iron: Supports increased blood volume and placental function.
Calcium: Helps build the baby’s bones and supports healthy blood flow.
Folic Acid/Folate: Prevents neural tube defects and supports cell growth. You might hear your healthcare provider talk about Folic Acid due to its importance for foetal growth. However, it is more effective to take Folate ( Vitamin B9) due to the fact that the body absorbs and uses this more easily as it is not synthetic. You can find folate in dark leafy greens, beans, nuts and citrus foots. We also recommend the Wild Nutrition Pregnancy Supplements due to their usage of food-grown Folate.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes healthy blood flow and brain development.
Vitamin C: Aids in the absorption of iron and supports immune function. It’s advisable if you have been prescribed iron to take it alongside something like orange juice to help with absorption and alleviate any possible symptoms.
If you’re interested in learning more about nutrition for fertility, pregnancy and postpartum you can speak to our resident nutritionist, Kat D’Andrea.
To Conclude
The placenta is an extraordinary organ that plays a central role in supporting your baby’s growth and your well-being during pregnancy. By understanding its functions, being aware of potential complications, and taking steps to nourish and care for it, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Regular prenatal care, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are key to maintaining optimal placental health. If you have any concerns about your placenta or overall pregnancy health, don’t hesitate to consult your midwife or healthcare provider. With the right care and attention, you can give your baby the best possible start in life.
