##submission.abstract##
Introduction: Pregnancy is state of dynamic changes in body systems
resulting in increased oxygen consumption. Pregnancy is associated with
oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), are main causes of oxidative
stress (OS) which are generated constantly by external and internal stimuli.
ROS causes cellular injury by attacking the phospholipids of cell membranes
and reacting with polyunsaturated fatty acids commonly associated with
disorders of pregnancy. Aim of this study was to evaluate the level of pro-
oxidant and antioxidant in healthy non pregnant and pregnant women.
Materials and methods: Parameters of the oxidative status Malondialdehyde
and antioxidant Superoxide dismutase and Catalase was estimated in serum
of 35 non pregnant and 35 pregnant women in the age group of 20-40 years.
Results: Findings were, that there was an increase in Malondialdehyde levels
(p<0.0001) and a decrease in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities
(P<0.0001 and P<0.0001) in pragnent women significantly.
Conclusion: This study shows that there was difference in oxidative status
due to dynamic changes in body and circulation that are inherent. During
pregnancy oxidative stress is increased that can be fatal to the health of the
mother and the fetus.
Keywords: Oxidative stress, Antioxidants, Normal pregnancy, Whole blood,
Serum, MDA, SOD, Catalase