When does oestrogen start distressing the placenta?

Oestrogen begins influencing the placenta from early pregnancy, around the third week, and continues to guide its growth until the baby is delivered.

Can a drop in oestrogen level cause pregnancy issues?

Yes, an inappropriate placental growth can lead to poor development or premature delivery of the baby because of a drop in oestrogen levels. Stay alert and continue to monitor your hormonal levels.

What’s my role in keeping oestrogen levels healthy during conception?

Eat well, take adequate rest, cheer your mood, and don’t miss prenatal check-ups. Additionally, take supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider.

The Connection Between Oestrogen and Placenta Development

Pregnancy is often described as a miracle, and that is indeed true. Inside you, a new life develops with the support of an extraordinary organ, i.e., the placenta. But what makes this organ function so perfectly? During pregnancy, oestrogen plays a significant role. It helps the placenta grow, nourish, and keep your baby safe.
Let’s see how the placenta and oestrogen work together, what could happen if your hormonal balance changes, and things you can do to promote a healthy development.

What Is the Role of the Placenta?

Think of the placenta as your baby's lifeline. It starts growing at about the third week of pregnancy and creates a link between your baby and the uterus through the umbilical cord.

It supplies nutrients and oxygen to the baby
It gets rid of waste products from your baby's blood
It safeguards your baby from any infection
It produces essential hormones like progesterone, oestrogen, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

The placenta is unique because it's the only organ your body makes just for pregnancy, and then it’s gone after the baby is born. For it to function perfectly, your hormonal balance, particularly oestrogen levels, needs to be just right.

What Is Oestrogen & How Does It Contribute to Pregnancy?

Oestrogen is a female sex hormone found in everyone, but the level surges in pregnant individuals, sometimes up to 100 times more than usual.
It’s responsible for a few important things, such as:

Helping blood flow to the placenta
Supporting the development of the uterus
Helping the baby's organ development
Preparing your body for breastfeeding

What’s the Role of Oestrogen in Placental Development?

Oestrogen, apart from promoting a healthy pregnancy, helps strengthen the placenta.

New blood vessels develop in your uterus with the help of oestrogen. This ensures that the placenta supplies your baby with adequate oxygen and food.
It promotes placental cell development. Studies show that oestrogen levels surge slowly during pregnancy to keep up with your baby’s needs.
Oestrogen, along with progesterone and hCG, helps the placenta do its job perfectly. If the placenta fails to function properly, it cannot produce sufficient hormones to support the pregnancy.
Inflammation or high stress can mess with the placenta. Oestrogen is beneficial because it reduces oxidative stress and maintains a balanced immune system in the placenta.

What If Oestrogen Is Too Low?

If oestrogen is lower than it should be during childbirth, it can mess with how the placenta grows and develops. Some possible issues include:

Poor blood circulation of the placenta can lead to oxygen insufficiency in the baby
Higher risk of preeclampsia or preterm birth
Slower development of the baby
Changes in hormonal levels can impact your overall health

If you feel moody, tired, or notice unusual bleeding, see a doctor.

Can Oestrogen Levels Also Cause Problems?

While oestrogen is essential, an excess of it isn't always considered good. Too much of it is often linked with being overweight or having gestational diabetes, which can cause:

Abnormal shape or development of the placenta
Fluid retention or having high blood pressure
Hormone issues that affect both you and your baby

How Can You Support a Healthy Oestrogen & Placenta Function?

When you’re expecting, you can’t control everything. Still, there are a few basic habits that can indeed make a difference in hormonal balance and support placental development.

Healthy foods that contain good protein and iron, such as nuts, spinach, eggs, and lentils, can enhance blood circulation and hormone synthesis.
Drink enough water. Staying hydrated supports nutrient delivery and helps maintain fluid balance.
Don’t smoke or drink since they can mess with your hormone levels and damage the placenta.
Get plenty of rest, which helps your body control hormones naturally and reduces strain on the placenta.
Try deep breathing, meditation, or easy prenatal yoga to manage stress hormones.

Emotional & Social Aspects

Hormonal changes can mess with your mood as much as your body. When oestrogen levels change, you might feel more tired or sensitive. Talking openly with your partner or loved ones about how you feel can make things easier. Emotional support helps reduce stress, which benefits both your hormonal balance and your baby's development.

When Do You Need Medical Help?

You must consult a doctor if you experience:

Significant decrease in your baby's movement
Extreme tiredness or mood swings
High blood pressure or unexplained swelling
If you start seeing spotting or unusual soreness

What to Follow Now?

Don’t overlook your mental and physical well-being
Eat wholesome meals and drink adequate water
Go to all your doctor’s appointments
Make sure you get rest, stay calm, and get support from your loved ones
Discuss any new or unusual symptoms with your doctor

Oestrogen is beyond just a pregnancy hormone; it's one of the major factors behind your placental development, function, and protection of your baby. When oestrogen and the placenta work in a balanced way, they create the foundation of a healthy pregnancy. Stay healthy and informed, and attend the follow-ups regularly. That’s how you and your baby get the best possible start.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on The Connection Between Oestrogen and Placenta Development

When does oestrogen start distressing the placenta?
Oestrogen begins influencing the placenta from early pregnancy, around the third week, and continues to guide its growth until the baby is delivered.
Can a drop in oestrogen level cause pregnancy issues?
Yes, an inappropriate placental growth can lead to poor development or premature delivery of the baby because of a drop in oestrogen levels. Stay alert and continue to monitor your hormonal levels.
What’s my role in keeping oestrogen levels healthy during conception?
Eat well, take adequate rest, cheer your mood, and don’t miss prenatal check-ups. Additionally, take supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider.