Risikoreduktion der Frühgeburtlichkeit durch eine DHA/EPA-Fettsäuren-Supplementierung

Abstract

Preterm birth is a major global health concern associated with increased neonatal morbidity and long-term adverse health outcomes. Maternal nutrition, particularly supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), has been proposed as a potential preventive strategy because of its anti-inflammatory effects. This bachelor's thesis systematically reviewed the evidence on the impact of DHA/EPA supplementation during pregnancy on the risk of preterm birth. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed on 15.01.2026, identifying nine randomized controlled trials published between 2010 and 2025 that met the predefined eligibility criteria. Overall, no statistically significant reduction in preterm birth was observed, although several studies demonstrated favorable trends. Higher DHA doses (>800 mg/day) and the inclusion of women with pregnancy-related risk factors appeared to be associated with more pronounced effects, suggesting a possible dose-dependent benefit in high-risk populations. Interpretation of the findings is limited by the frequent exclusion of high-risk pregnancies and the reliance on self-reported dietary intake rather than objective biomarkers. Current evidence does not support a general recommendation for DHA/EPA supplementation solely for the prevention of preterm birth. However, DHA supplementation remains advisable during pregnancy when dietary intake is insufficient to support fetal neurological development. Further well-designed studies incorporating blood lipid biomarkers and focusing on high-risk populations are needed to clarify the preventive potential of DHA/EPA supplementation.