What causes low lymphocyte percentage in the third trimester of pregnancy?

Lymphocyte percentage reduction in the late stages of pregnancy may result from either physiological or pathological causes, such as bacterial infections, hepatitis, etc. Targeted treatments are available. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Physiological Causes

During the late stages of pregnancy, a series of physiological changes occur in the pregnant woman's body, including alterations in the immune system. Normally, the maternal immune system undergoes moderate suppression to prevent an immune attack on the fetus. This suppression may lead to decreased levels of certain immune indicators, including a reduced lymphocyte percentage. Generally, no treatment is required in such cases.

2. Pathological Causes

2.1 Bacterial Infection

Bacterial infections occur when bacteria enter the body, multiply, and produce toxins. When bacteria invade a pregnant woman's body, the immune system releases various cytokines and chemical substances to resist the invasion. These substances trigger inflammatory responses and activate immune cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes, leading to consumption of immune cells and consequently a decreased lymphocyte percentage. After diagnosis by a physician, medications such as amoxicillin capsules, gentamicin injection, and doxycycline capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

2.2 Hepatitis

When hepatitis viruses invade liver cells, they cause inflammation, resulting in hepatocyte damage and death, leading to hepatitis. Hepatitis virus infection activates the body’s immune system, increasing the production of inflammatory factors and cytokines. These factors may negatively affect the pregnant woman's immune system, causing a decrease in lymphocyte percentage. Medications such as entecavir capsules, telbivudine tablets, and ribavirin capsules should be taken strictly according to medical advice.

In addition to the above, low lymphocyte percentage in late pregnancy may also be caused by viral infections, parasitic infections, HIV/AIDS, and other conditions. Pregnant women should follow their doctor's recommendations for treatment and avoid self-medicating to prevent adverse effects.