Preeclampsia is a condition in which protein in the urine and high blood pressure develop in the late second trimester or third trimester of pregnancy. Preeclampsia may have serious consequences, including placental abruption and, rarely, maternal death. While certain supplements, including fish oil, have been evaluated for their preventative effects against preeclampsia, there remains no known way to prevent this condition. Talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements, or any other supplement or medication, during pregnancy.
Fish Oil, High Blood Pressure and Preeclampsia
According to MedlinePlus, fish oil is "possibly effective" for achieving modest blood pressure reduction in people with high blood pressure. However, while high blood pressure is a main component of preeclampsia, fish oil is not associated with any preventative or curative benefits for preeclampsia. According to MayoClinic.com, although several studies have evaluated the effects of fish oil for preeclampsia, this research does not provide sufficient evidence to reach a firm conclusion on its effectiveness.
Other Supplements and Medications to Prevent Preeclampsia
Besides fish oil, scientists have also studied the effectiveness of other supplements and medications for preventing preeclampsia. According to NHS Choices, a public health service provided by the government of the United Kingdom, supplements of evening primrose oil have proven ineffective in preventing preeclampsia, although research indicates low-dose aspirin, calcium and antioxidants including vitamin E, vitamin C, lycopene and selenium may reduce risk of developing preeclampsia. Vitamin D supplements may also reduce preeclampsia risk, according to MayoClinic.com.
Preeclampsia Prevention Recommendations
While certain dietary supplements, excluding fish oil, have shown possible benefits for preeclampsia prevention, there is no known reliable method of preventing preeclampsia. Since it may not be possible to prevent preeclampsia, it's important to obtain proper prenatal care and continue it throughout your pregnancy in order to find and treat conditions like preeclampsia early, notes PubMed Health. To minimize risk of pregnancy complications in general, it's also imperative to follow a healthy prenatal diet as outlined by your health care provider.
Fish Oil and Pregnancy
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence regarding fish oil and preeclampsia prevention, your doctor or midwife may recommend taking fish oil during pregnancy for its other prenatal benefits. Fish oil provides the essential omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EHA, which support normal cognitive and visual development of a baby in the womb. There is also evidence indicating that increased intake of EPA and DHA during pregnancy may help prevent premature birth, low birth weight and postpartum depression, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
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