Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C. | June 26, 2012 | Medical Malpractice

Fish oil is a popular health care supplement, especially among pregnant women. Unfortunately, a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the risk for serious pregnancy complications of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia are not lowered by taking omega-3 fatty acids.

The vitamin is still safe and there are no downsides to taking it but the evidence that suggested fish oil lowers the risk of these serious medical conditions has been rendered false.  The study’s negative finding may be due to women beginning their regular supplement routine 20 weeks into their terms.  Starting a daily regimen earlier may increase the benefits of any nutritional enhancement and is recommended for general health reasons despite its inability to cure serious birth complications.  

Gestational diabetes and preeclampsia are very dangerous diseases that could lead to severe and even deadly complications for both the mother and baby if untreated. Between 3 and 8 percent of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes, placing their newborns at risk for obesity and insulin resistance and resulting in likelihood of the mother developing type II diabetes later in life. Preeclampsia is the cause of 18 percent of all maternal deaths in the country. Preeclampsia causes high blood pressure, excess protein in the urine and often necessitates early delivery and dangerous childbirth. 

All pregnant women should be regularly examined by a medical professional to ensure they are not at risk for these illnesses.  If you or a loved one has suffered a pregnancy complication or childbirth resulting in birth defects because of failure to diagnose a serious medical condition, contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney immediately.