Long-chain Fatty Acids in Pregnancy

In this episode of Milestones in Maternal Nutrition, Professor Andrew Prentice interviews Professor Maria Makrides, exploring the evolving science of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and their implications for maternal and infant health. Professor Makrides explains how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, support fetal brain and nervous system development during late gestation, while also influencing the timing of parturition through their effects on inflammatory pathways and prostaglandin balance. The discussion traces the scientific journey from early epidemiological observations to randomized trials and large-scale meta-analyses demonstrating that omega-3 supplementation may reduce the risk of early preterm birth, particularly among women with low omega-3 status. Together, they also discussed the translation of this evidence into clinical practice through South Australia’s pioneering antenatal omega-3 screening and supplementation program.