What does it mean if a pregnant woman has normal liver function but low albumin levels, and what should be done?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Pregnant women with normal liver function may have low albumin levels due to either physiological or pathological factors, such as malnutrition or chronic enteritis, which require targeted treatment. As pregnancy progresses and gestational age increases, blood volume rises, while plasma albumin synthesis does not increase significantly, leading to a decrease in serum albumin concentration. This is a normal physiological phenomenon.
Low albumin levels in pregnant women may be caused by physiological factors or pathological factors such as malnutrition and chronic enteritis, which require targeted treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
As pregnancy progresses, blood volume increases in pregnant women, while plasma albumin synthesis does not significantly increase, leading to a decrease in serum albumin concentration. This is a normal physiological phenomenon that generally resolves spontaneously after delivery and usually does not require excessive concern.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Malnutrition
If a pregnant woman does not consume sufficient nutrients during pregnancy, especially inadequate protein intake, it may lead to malnutrition. Additionally, due to the enhanced metabolic capacity in pregnant women, protein breakdown increases, resulting in low albumin levels. It is recommended that pregnant women increase their intake of protein-rich foods.
2. Chronic Enteritis
Pregnant women have relatively lower immunity. If they become infected with pathogens such as bacteria or other microorganisms during this period, chronic enteritis may develop. Inflammatory factors can irritate the intestines, impairing nutrient absorption and thereby contributing to reduced albumin levels. Pregnant women can take medications such as compound glutamine capsules or levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets under medical supervision.
In addition to the above, conditions such as gastritis, intestinal obstruction, and gastric ulcers may also cause this condition. If a pregnant woman experiences any discomfort, she should seek prompt medical attention at a hospital.
