Prenatal alcohol exposure is associated with altered feto-placental blood flow and sex-specific placental changes.

BACKGROUNDPrenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) around conception in preclinical models results in placental insufficiency, likely contributing to offspring abnormalities. Altered placental DNA methylation (DNAm) and gene expression suggest epigenetic mechanisms, perhaps involving impacts on methyl donor levels. PAE around conception in women is common but placental effects are rarely examined.

Sex-specific associations between feto-placental growth and maternal physical activity volume and sitting time: Findings from the Queensland Family Cohort study.

Introduction: Antenatal physical activity (PA) is associated with beneficial changes in placental growth and function; however, the effect of excessive sitting time is less clear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether feto-placental growth changes with maternal activity, and whether these associations differ in a sex-specific manner.

Methods: This study included women enrolled in the Queensland Family Cohort study who self-reported PA and sitting time at 24 or 36 weeks of gestation.

Maternal physical activity and sitting time and its association with placental morphology and blood flow during gestation: Findings from the Queensland Family Cohort study.

Objectives: Antenatal exercise is associated with placental morphological alterations, however research in this area is limited. Given the emphasis on the beneficial effects of antenatal exercise, it is important to understand its effect on placental function and the relationship to foetal development. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical activity, sitting time, and placental outcomes measured during gestation.

The effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on blood pressure in uncomplicated and at risk pregnancies: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Regular exercise performed during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of developing perinatal gestational hypertensive conditions. Further evidence on the exact parameters of exercise needed to explain these beneficial responses is required, within both uncomplicated and at-risk pregnancies.

Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on blood pressure during pregnancy.

The effects of exercise during pregnancy on placental composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Morphological changes to the placenta occur as the demands of the foetus increase throughout gestation. Physical activity during pregnancy is known to benefit both the mother and infant, however the impact of antenatal exercise training on placental development is less known. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of exercise training during pregnancy on measures of placental composition.