Abstract
Oxidation reactions are important in many vital processes of the body, but they are associated with many toxic effects under certain conditions, from insufficient availability of antioxidants to neutralize them and get rid of them. Pregnancy, delivery, and the first period of life of the fetus are critical conditions that increase the risk of oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress products, antioxidants, and lipid indices in pregnant women at delivery and their cord blood, and women who are not pregnant. The study included 25 healthy pregnant women at delivery and their cord blood, and 25 healthy non-pregnant women recruited from Prince Mishari Bin Saud Hospital in Baljurashi, SA. The serum was tested for the antioxidants, oxidative stress products, and lipid profile. The results showed a significant increase (p <= 0.05) in reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAO), and a significant decrease (p <= 0.01) in the advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP), cholesterol, low density lipoproteins (LDL) and triglyceride level in the cord serum compared to the group of pregnant women. The results also showed a significant increase (p <= 0.01) in AOPP, cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, and a significant decrease (p <= 0.01) in GSH, catalase (CAT), TAO, and glutathione-stransferase in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. Pregnant women at delivery areincurred to increased oxidative stress, while the cord blood contains a high percentage of antioxidants, which protect the fetus from the risk of free radicals at birth.