Omega-3 fatty acid supply in pregnancy for risk reduction of preterm and early preterm birth: A position statement by the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG)

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.02.009
• Publication Date: 2024-02-06T02:32:21Z
• Authors: Charles Savona-Ve...; Tahir Mahmood; Sambit Mukhopadhyay; Frank Louwen
• Keywords: Docosahexaenoic Acids; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Pregnancy; Gynecology; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Infant, Newborn; Humans; Premature Birth; Female

Pre-term birth is associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Pre-term births are associated with significant health and neuro-developmental risks in childhood and adulthood. Women with multiple pregnancies are at much higher risks. Low levels of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are associated with higher risk of pre-term labour and increased consumption of foods rich in omega-3 PUFA or supplements are associated with a 11 % and 42 % risk reduction of early and late preterm births, respectively.