[A study of maternal and fetal peroxidation in elderly primigravidea]

To analyze the rlationship between the age of pregnant women and maternal and fetal peroxidation.

Pregnant 164 women in their third trimester were collected and divided into 3 groups according to maternal ages: in group 1, maternal age less than 35, n = 71; group 2, maternal age 35-39, n = 63; group 3, 40 or over, n = 30. All the women had no other high risk factors. Maternal and umbilical blood samples were drawn during delivery, and the concentration of superoxide enzyme (SOD) and Lipid peroxidate produce (LPO) were determined.

There were no significant differences in neonatal Apgar scores, birth weight, and the volume and quality of amniotic fluid among the 3 groups, but the cesarean scetion rate increased along with maternal age. The fetal SOD concentration was significantly higher than that in maternal serum, but the LPO level was lower. There was significant correlation between maternal age and maternal serum SOD and LPO levels (r1 = 0.15, P < 0.05; r2 = 0.2299, P < 0.01). The maternal LPO levels in group 2 and 3 were significantly higher than that in group1 (P < 0.05), and the concentration of SOD in group 3 was significantly lower than that in group 1 (P < 0.05).

The activity and concentration of free radicals were higher in mother than that in fetus, and the ability of anti-oxidation was lower in mother. The maternal age is associated with SOD and LPO levels during pregnancy.