Oxidative stress plays a key role in cell ageing, and the persistent presence of elevated oxidative stress precipitates cellular senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in premature ageing of the placenta.
In respect to this, what causes a placenta to age quickly?
However, other factors such as smoking and drinking, high body mass index, poor nutrition and infection could be avoided. Antioxidants in the body control any damage caused by oxidative stress. But when oxidative stress becomes overwhelming, it can trigger premature placental aging, which can result in preterm birth.
One may also ask, what happens when the placenta gets old? If the placenta is getting old, it can slow down or stop your baby from growing. If the placenta is still doing its job, the baby may grow too big. A big baby can make your labour harder and longer.
Herein, when does the placenta start aging?
By week 12, the placenta is formed and ready to take over nourishment for the baby. However, it continues to grow throughout your pregnancy. It’s considered mature by 34 weeks.