Are Peptides Safe for Pregnancy?

December 3, 2023

If peptides are a part of your skincare routine or your fitness diet, you might want to take a step back when pregnant. They may not be 100% safe for your baby.

In this post, we’ll explore the potential impact of peptides on your health if you are pregnant, as well the possible effects on a developing baby.

What Are Peptides?

Peptides are chains composed of two to fifty amino acids (1). They are smaller than proteins in terms of structure, which makes them easy to absorb.

They are believed to:

• Slow down the aging process
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce inflammation and improve injury healing
• Prevent age-related bone loss
• Build strength and muscle mass

Note that the benefits of bioactive peptides are not definitive and they’re still being researched, but they are usually considered safe for consumption by non-pregnant people (2). There are three ways to consume peptide supplements: topically, orally, or via intravenous injections or intramuscular injections.

Peptides and Pregnancy: Current Research

The following is a list of bioregulator peptides that have been introduced for expecting mothers:

• Thymic peptides: These are believed to support immune function and could be used during pregnancy to boost maternal immunity.

• Ovarian peptides: These peptides are known to be involved in reproductive health. They might have implications for pregnancy support.

Studies suggest that it isn’t entirely harmful to consume peptide supplements during pregnancy. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Pregnancy and Child Health found that Protiva treatment (which is made of collagen peptides) improved the quality of life and wound healing rate for pregnant women by 100% during the third trimester and in the postpartum period (3). 

However, it is worth noting that the FDA does not regulate supplements like it does medications–these peptides are considered supplements. So, it’s best for pregnant women to buy peptides from a highly reputable company and always consult their doctor before taking them. 

Potential Benefits of Peptide Use During Pregnancy

Collagen Support for Skin Elasticity

Peptide supplements can help promote collagen production in your skin. Collagen is like the ‘glue’ that keeps your skin elastic and firm. During pregnancy, when your skin stretches, peptides might help maintain its elasticity and prevent stretch marks (4). 

Immune System Balance

As your immune system changes to protect both you and your baby, peptides could help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of infections (5).

Reduced Discomfort and Fatigue

Pregnancy comes with its share of discomfort and fatigue. Some peptide supplements might offer relief and help you feel more comfortable.

Hair and Nail Health

Pregnancy hormones can have a positive impact on your hair and nails. Peptide supplements could potentially help maintain their health and appearance by promoting growth and strength.

Bone Health Maintenance

As your body provides calcium to your baby’s developing bones, peptides can help ensure that your own bones remain strong (6).

Potential Risks Posed by Peptides During Pregnancy

There are also a few risks posed by peptide use during pregnancy. These include:

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals might be sensitive or allergic to specific peptides (7). During pregnancy, your body’s immune system is much more sensitive than usual. This increases the likelihood of allergic reactions–especially when using peptides on sensitive skin.

Risk of Preterm Labor

Peptides that affect uterine contractions or hormonal balance might potentially increase the risk of preterm labor, which is a serious concern during pregnancy (8).

Long-Term Effects on Offspring

Researchers still don’t have a conclusive grasp on the long-term health implications of peptide consumption during pregnancy, but peptides that cross the placenta could have implications for the baby’s development (9).

Drug Interactions

During pregnancy, you might be taking other supplements and medications, too. If these drugs interact with peptides, it could lead to unpredictable outcomes–meaning more risk to the developing fetus (10). 

The Bottom Line

Evidence suggests peptides may be safe and even beneficial to take as a supplement during pregnancy. However, there are some serious risks attributed to these supplements while pregnant. Given these risks, always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any sort of supplements during your pregnancy. 

Legal Disclaimer

This product has not been approved by the US FDA. All statements on this page are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the US FDA.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. See more

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Sources:

1. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/peptides
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6265732/
3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/310662513_Response_to_Hydrolysed_Collagen_Protein_Supplementation_in_a_Cohort_of_Pregnant_and_Postpartum_Women
4. https://www.jmnn.org/article.asp?issn=2278-1870;year=2015;volume=4;issue=1;spage=47;epage=53;aulast=Borumand
5. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/608979/
6. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1550-2783-10-35
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6016997/#:~:text=Although%20peptides%20are%20less%20immunogenic,expensive%20stages%20of%20clinical%20trials.
8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25773319/
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10837746/
10. https://ascpt.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cpt.2847