Why take a probiotic course when you are pregnant?

From the first moments of embryo implantation, the microbiota coordinates numerous metabolic and immune functions , by modulating the immune response of the cellular tissue which serves to nourish the embryo. Thus, it prevents the phenomenon of rejection linked to the fact that the fetus carries a foreign genetic heritage, half of which is of paternal origin. Then, all of the mother's microorganisms are transferred to the placenta , where it activates the release of lymphocytes and antibodies and prevents the establishment of pathogenic or "enemy" bacteria. All this reduces the likelihood that food intolerances and allergies will develop in the child later.

As a result, the placental microbiota exercises true fetal programming , by acting on immune factors, but also hormonal and neural factors, through the synthesis of molecules modulating the development of the fetal brain.

Let's see in more detail what are the benefits of taking probiotics while pregnant for the health of the future mother and her baby.

Generally, a balanced microbiota ensures effective action of the immune system, as well as regular metabolic and hormonal activity. This lays the foundation for an excellent connection between the gut and other parts of the body .

Here are the benefits that taking probiotics during pregnancy provides the pregnant woman:

• Reducing the risk rate of premature birth and complications such as pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes ;
• Improvement of the digestive process, with the reduction of nausea , vomiting, constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders;
• Better absorption of essential substances such as iron, calcium and magnesium. On the importance of prenatal vitamins and supplementing with vitamin D and iron during pregnancy, our blog articles are there to answer your questions and clarify your doubts;
• Improvement in insulin resistance and subsequent reduction in blood sugar;
• The reduction in the risk rate of mastitis , painful inflammation of the breast which seems closely linked to an excessive load of staphylococci, to the detriment of normal breast bacterial flora.

A balanced flora in pregnant women also ensures the synthesis of folic acid, vitamin K and B vitamins, essential for the well-being of the fetus .

Then, when the day of birth arrives, contact of the fetus with the birth canal and the mother's skin results in microbial imprinting . Concretely, the fetal intestine is colonized by components of the mother's microbiota and this microbial inheritance will influence, in the short and long term, the health of the newborn.

Indeed, future immune, metabolic and hormonal responses, as well as successful communication between its enteric and central nervous systems, depend on this crucial transition. This phenomenon explains why the microbiota of children born by natural childbirth is very similar to the maternal microbiota.

An excellent reason for pregnant women to take probiotics during pregnancy and later breastfeeding.

The benefits for the baby?

• Prevent necrotizing enterocolitis in premature or underweight newborns;
• Reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis or cradle cap in infants;
• Reduce gas colic, particularly when feeding with artificial milk;
• Prevent metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes in adolescence;
• Promote brain development and mental health in adulthood.

During pregnancy, the bacterial flora can be altered by the inevitable change in hormone levels and normal body functions, leading to numerous inconveniences (constipation, flatulence, nausea, etc.). These phenomena are increased by constant pressure and increasing exerted by the uterus on the stomach and intestines.

The health of the vaginal microbiota being closely linked to that of the intestinal microbiota , certain urogenital disorders can result from a reduction in beneficial bacterial strains of the intestinal flora and the consequent increase in pathogenic strains. The latter can then move up from the intestine towards the uterus and the urinary tract and, with the complicity of an altered pH, easily insinuate themselves there. Result: the appearance of vaginitis and candidiasis at the genital level or cystitis at the urinary level.

This demonstrates the fundamental role played by taking probiotics while pregnant , in order to maintain eubiosis (balance of intestinal flora). Probiotics are capable of counteracting the establishment and proliferation of any pathogenic bacteria or fungi causing candidiasis and vaginitis. Therefore, a combination of good probiotic strains proves essential for maintaining urogenital well-being . Especially since an altered vaginal pH, greater than 4.5, and a deficient colonization of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria, increase the risk of premature birth.

In conclusion, the use of probiotics during pregnancy is recommended both in the event of the appearance of gastrointestinal disorders and as a preventative measure to support and better live this very special period. Our Probio formula helps maintain microbial balance in pregnant women , a precious gift that she will in turn pass on as an inheritance to her child. We advise you, as a precaution, to take medical advice into account in the event of pregnancy or breastfeeding.