The significance of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of male reproductive processes
has been closely studied in the last two decades. Recently, it has become clear that
oxidative stress can lead to numerous pathological conditions during female reproductive
processes as well, contributing to the development of endometriosis, polycystic ovary
syndrome and various forms of infertility. During pregnancy, physiological generation
of reactive oxygen species (ROS) occurs in association with several developmental
processes including oocyte maturation and implantation. An overproduction of ROS can
lead to disturbances in fetal development and increases the risk for missed abortion,
intrauterine growth restriction, pre-eclampsia, premature delivery and gestational
diabetes. Our review focuses on the etiological role of the disrupted oxidant–antioxidant
system during human gestation as it relates to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
