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What are the implications of low plasma protein C activity on pregnancy?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Low plasma protein C activity should be taken seriously during pregnancy, as it generally increases the risk of thrombosis, impairs placental blood supply, may lead to fetal growth restriction, raises the likelihood of miscarriage and preterm birth, and heightens the risk of pregnancy-related complications. Protein C is a key regulator of coagulation; reduced activity disrupts the balance between coagulation and anticoagulation, predisposing the blood to a hypercoagulable state.

Low plasma protein C activity during pregnancy requires attention, as it may lead to increased risk of thrombosis, impaired placental blood supply, potential fetal growth restriction, higher chances of miscarriage and preterm birth, and exacerbated risks of pregnancy complications. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Increased risk of thrombosis: Plasma protein C is a key regulator of coagulation. Reduced activity disrupts the balance between coagulation and anticoagulation, making blood more prone to hypercoagulability. During pregnancy, when vascular burden is already increased, this elevates the likelihood of thrombus formation, potentially causing conditions such as deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs.

2. Impaired placental blood supply: If thrombi block blood vessels related to the placenta, placental blood flow may decrease, reducing its ability to deliver oxygen and nutrients. This compromises the fetus's nutrient uptake and overall development.

3. Potential fetal growth restriction: Due to compromised placental perfusion and nutrient transport, the fetus may not receive sufficient substances required for normal growth, leading to slow growth velocity and low birth weight below standard norms for gestational age.

4. Increased risk of miscarriage and preterm birth: Abnormal placental function or thrombotic events may destabilize the intrauterine environment, increasing the risks of early miscarriage, mid-gestation fetal demise, or late preterm delivery, thereby negatively affecting pregnancy outcomes.

5. Exacerbated risk of pregnancy complications: Reduced plasma protein C activity may be associated with obstetric complications such as preeclampsia, increasing the likelihood of maternal hypertension and proteinuria, posing serious threats to both maternal and fetal health.

Pregnant women are advised to regularly monitor their coagulation profiles. If low plasma protein C activity is detected, they should adjust their lifestyle under medical guidance and, when necessary, receive pharmacological intervention. Close monitoring of both maternal and fetal conditions is essential to ensure a safe pregnancy.

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