Preventive role of L-arginine on pregnancy complications in primigravid women

L-arginine may protect against hypertensive pregnancy disorders like preeclampsia by improving immune responses, endothelial function, and placental health, with no significant side effects.

This single-blind randomized clinical study aimed to explore the potential preventative effects of L-arginine on intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and preeclampsia in first-time pregnant women.

Pregnant women were selected using an available sampling method. The treatment group (average age of the women=35.8 ± 5.25 years) received L-arginine 1000 mg + pregnancy supplements from the 20th week of pregnancy for 12 weeks. Women in the control group (average age of the women=39.4 ± 7.24 years) were only given prenatal supplements. Outcomes include the incidence of preeclampsia, blood pressure (BP), excess protein in the urine, and IUGR.

The intervention group had a considerably higher incidence of IUGR (12.66%) than the control group (2.7%) p = 0.033. Severe preeclampsia occurred in 5.41% of the intervention group, whereas it was 18.99% in the control group. Additionally, non-severe preeclampsia was more prevalent in the controls (p = 0.035).

Supplementation of L-arginine lowers the occurrence of preeclampsia and improves pregnancy outcomes. Future investigation is required to clarify the underlying mechanisms, improve treatment protocols, and assess maternal and fetal outcomes in the long run.