Cellular mechanisms linking to outdoor and indoor air pollution damage during pregnancy

Pregnancies are a critical window period for environmental influences over the mother and the offspring. There is a growing body of evidence associating indoor and outdoor air pollution exposure to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Particulate matter (PM) could trigger oxi-inflammation and could also reach the placenta leading to placental damage with fetal consequences. The combination of strategies such as risk assessment, advise about risks of environmental exposures to pregnant women, together with nutritional strategies and digital solutions to monitor air quality can be effective in mitigating the effects of air pollution during pregnancy.

Automated summary

Pregnancy is a critical period for environmental influences on both the mother and the offspring, with air pollution exposure being associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Particulate matter can trigger inflammation and reach the placenta, causing damage and impacting fetal health. A combination of strategies including risk assessment, education about environmental risks, nutritional interventions, and digital monitoring of air quality can help mitigate the effects of air pollution during pregnancy.