Albumin in pregnancy refers to a major plasma protein that plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance and overall health for both the mother and the developing fetus.
The Role of Albumin During Pregnancy
Albumin is a key component of plasma proteins and is vital for several functions:
- Maintaining Oncotic Pressure: Albumin helps regulate the balance of fluid between blood vessels and surrounding tissues. This is crucial for preventing edema (swelling) and ensuring proper hydration (9).
- Plasma Expansion: Albumin reflects the extent of plasma expansion during pregnancy (9). Adequate plasma expansion is essential for supporting the increased blood volume needed to nourish the growing fetus.
Importance of Albumin Levels in Pregnancy
Sufficient levels of albumin are necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Inadequate plasma expansion, which can be reflected in low albumin levels, is associated with several complications:
- Low Birthweight (LBW): Reduced albumin levels and subsequent inadequate plasma expansion can hinder fetal growth, increasing the risk of LBW (10).
- Oligohydramnios: This condition, characterized by low amniotic fluid levels, can also be linked to inadequate plasma expansion reflected in low albumin (11).
- Preeclampsia: Low albumin levels may contribute to the development of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage (12).
