Basic Principles of

Biochemistry in Midwifery
Practice
Biochemistry is the study of life processes at the molecular level. In midwifery
practice, understanding biochemistry is essential to interpreting the complex
chemical changes that occur during pregnancy. This document will provide a
comprehensive overview of biochemistry, its importance, and its application in
midwifery practice.

by Siska Ningtyas Prabasari, M.Sc Ns-Mid

Fundamental Concepts in Biochemistry

An exploration of the fundamental concepts in

biochemistry, covering diverse topics such as the structure
and function of biomolecules, metabolic processes,
enzymatic mechanisms, biochemical reactions and
pathways, DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, and the
practical applications of biochemistry in various fields.
The Definition of Biochemistry
“Biochemistry is the study of the molecular basis of life,”

Simply put, biochemistry details the chemical processes

that occur within living organisms. It explores the
interaction of molecules, such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and
carbohydrates, and their chemical reactions.

By understanding the intricate molecular interactions, we

can unravel the complexities of life and develop innovative
solutions for the future.
The Building Blocks of Life

Biomolecules Cellular Metabolism Nucleic Acids

Discover the diverse Uncover the Dive into the world of
functions of intricacies of cellular nucleic acids,
biomolecules, metabolism, from unraveling the secrets
including proteins, energy production of DNA replication,
carbohydrates, and and utilization to the transcription,
lipids, and explore crucial role of translation, and the
their structural enzymes in regulation of gene
complexities. metabolic pathways. expression.
Biochemical Reactions and Pathways

"Biochemical reactions form an intricate web

of interconnected pathways, allowing for the
production of diverse molecules and the
continuous flow of energy within living
systems."
Structure and Function of Biomolecules
1 Proteins
From enzymes catalyzing vital reactions
to structural components, proteins are
the workhorses of cellular life.
3 Lipids
Key components of cell membranes and
energy storage, lipids are indispensable
for maintaining cellular integrity and
function.
2 Carbohydrates
Providing energy and acting as structural
elements, carbohydrates play diverse
roles in biological systems.
4 Nucleic Acids
Containing the genetic instructions for
life, nucleic acids enable the
transmission of hereditary information.
METABOLIC REACTIONS

" Metabolic reactions involve a series of changes

and transformations of substances in the body.
Examples include carbohydrate metabolism, lipid
metabolism, and protein metabolism. These
reactions allow the body to produce energy,
obtain nutrients, and eliminate waste products."
 Metabolism and Energy Production

1 Step 1: Glycolysis
Breaking down glucose to
Step 2: Citric Acid Cycle produce ATP and NADH,
2 glycolysis is the first step in
In the mitochondria, the energy generation.
citric acid cycle further
extracts energy from 3 Step 3: Electron Transport Chain
breakdown products. Utilizing electron carriers,
the electron transport chain
generates the majority of
ATP through oxidative
phosphorylation.
Enzymes and Their Mechanisms
Enzyme Structure
Enzymes possess intricate
three-dimensional structures
that enable them to catalyze
biochemical reactions with
remarkable specificity.
Enzyme Kinetics
The study of enzyme kinetics
helps us understand how
enzymes interact with
substrates and regulate the
rate of chemical reactions.
DNA, RNA and Protein Synthesis
DNA RNA Protein Synthesis

Contains genetic information Transcription of genetic Translation of genetic

information information into
functional proteins

Double-stranded helix Single-stranded Ribosomes play a key role

in protein synthesis

Adenine, thymine, Adenine, uracil, guanine, Initiation, elongation, and

guanine, cytosine cytosine termination stages
Applications of Biochemistry in Various
Fields

Medicine Agriculture Biotechnology

In medical research and By studying plant metabolism Biochemical techniques are

diagnostics, biochemistry plays
a vital role in understanding
diseases, developing therapies,
and monitoring patient health.
and genetics, biochemists
contribute to improving crop
yield, sustainability, and
resistance to pests and diseases.
employed to manipulate
organisms and produce valuable
products such as
pharmaceuticals, enzymes, and
biofuels.
Applied Biochemistry: From Lab to Real
World

Biotechnology Food Science

Explore the applications of biochemistry in Delve into the realm of food chemistry and uncover
biotechnology, where molecules are harnessed for how biochemistry enhances our understanding of
medical breakthroughs and sustainable solutions. nutrition, flavor, and food preservation.
Unleashing the Power of Biochemistry

Medical Environmental Personalized

1 Breakthroughs 2 Solutions 3 Nutrition

Discover how Explore the role of Uncover the

biochemistry is biochemistry in future of
revolutionizing addressing nutrition, where
medicine, environmental biochemistry
enabling the challenges, from empowers us to
development of sustainable tailor diets based
life-saving drugs biofuels to on individuals'
and therapies. pollution unique genetic
remediation. profiles.
The Exciting World of Biochemistry
Genomics
Embark on a journey through the realm of
genomics, deciphering the code of life and
unraveling the mysteries of inherited traits
and diseases.
Nanobiotechnology
Discover how the marriage of
nanotechnology and biochemistry is
revolutionizing medicine, from targeted drug
delivery to biosensors.
A Glimpse into the Future

"Biochemistry will continue to revolutionize our

understanding of life, paving the way for groundbreaking
discoveries and innovative solutions to global
challenges."

- Dr. Jane Biochemist

Biochemistry in Obstetrics

Understanding the biochemistry

behind pregnancy and childbirth is
SN
essential for maternal and fetal
health.
Metabolic Pathways during Pregnancy
Lipid Metabolism
Maternal fat stores provide
energy for fetal growth.
Changes in lipid metabolism
during pregnancy can affect
fetal brain development and
increase the risk of
neurodevelopmental
disorders.
1 Carbohydrate Metabolism
Changes in maternal glucose
levels affect fetal growth and
2 development. Gestational
diabetes can lead to
macrosomia and increased
birth complications.
3 Protein Metabolism
Changes in amino acid metabolism
during pregnancy are necessary for
optimal fetal growth and
development. Alterations in this
pathway can lead to intrauterine
growth restriction and preterm birth.
The Amazing Journey from Conception to
Childbirth
Fertilization
When sperm enters the egg cell,
enzymes and ions are released
which trigger the mechanism for
forming a zygote. Biochemistry
is very important in fertilization
because molecular interactions
and chemical signals trigger the
process of cell division.
Conception
After fertilization, the
zygote must attach to the
uterine wall to continue to
grow and develop. Various
proteins and hormones
such as progesterone play
an important role in
facilitating this process.
Labor
Childbirth involves various
chemical processes ranging
from uterine muscle
contractions to the release of
the hormone oxytocin.
Biochemistry is also involved
in milk production and
triggering fetal growth.
The Importance of Biochemistry in
Midwifery
Interpretation of Recommendations Assessing
Lab Results for Pregnancy Diet Complications in
Pregnancy
As part of pregnancy care, Understanding biochemistry
pregnant women undergo helps midwives make Knowledge of biochemistry
laboratory testing which recommendations on healthy helps midwives identify risks
requires the knowledge of eating choices during associated with preeclampsia,
biochemistry to understand pregnancy, like the importance gestational diabetes, and
the results. of folic acid and iron intrauterine growth restrictions
supplements. and intervene before
complications occur.
Biochemical Processes in Pregnancy
Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy causes various hormonal changes that
contribute to bodily changes like increased insulin
resistance and changes in glucose metabolism.
The Role of the Placenta
The placenta regulates the exchange of nutrients
and waste products between the maternal and fetal
circulations, which is crucial for proper fetal
development. Biochemistry helps midwives
understand the role of the placenta in pregnancy.
Hormonal Changes during Childbirth

Oxytocin Progesterone Estrogen

Stimulates uterine
contractions and is essential
for initiating and sustaining
labour.
Prepares the uterus for
implantation and helps
maintain pregnancy. Levels
drop sharply during labour
to allow for cervical dilation.
Increases uterine blood flow
and promotes growth of the
uterus and breast tissue.
Plays a role in protecting the
fetus from harmful toxins.
The Role of Hormones in Lactation
Lactation is the process of producing and providing breast milk to babies. The lactation process is closely
related to the hormonal process which functions to trigger the production and release of breast milk. The
hormones prolactin and oxytocin play an important role in the lactation process.

Prolactin Oxytocin

This hormone stimulates the breast glands to This hormone triggers muscle contractions in
produce breast milk after giving birth. the breast glands and facilitates the flow of
breast milk during breastfeeding.
Biochemical Markers for Prenatal
Screening
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) A protein produced by the fetus that can indicate
neural tube defects.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) A hormone produced by the placenta. Levels of

HCG can indicate certain chromosomal
disorders.
Progesterone (P4) A hormone produced by the placenta which is
essential for maintaining pregnancy.
Pregnancy Disorders Associated with
Biochemical Disorders
Pre-eclampsia
Abnormalities in the placenta
can cause high blood pressure,
edema, and proteinuria. Pre-
eclampsia can cause serious
complications and endanger
the health of the mother and
fetus.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
A condition that causes
nausea, vomiting, and loss of
appetite during pregnancy.
This disorder can interfere with
nutritional processes that are
important for fetal growth.
Placenta Previa
A condition in which the
placenta covers part or all of
the cervix. This condition can
cause bleeding and interfere
with the normal birth process.
Biochemical Markers for Pregnancy
Complications
1 Aneuploidy
Abnormal chromosome
number in the fetus can
result in miscarriage,
stillbirth or birth defects.
Prenatal screening tests
can detect these
abnormalities during
the first and second
trimesters.
2 Preterm Labour 3 Preeclampsia
A variety of biochemical
markers including
cervical length, fetal
fibronectin and certain
hormonal levels can
help identify women at
risk for preterm labour.
Early intervention can
help reduce the risk of
complications.
Reduced levels of certain
proteins including placental
growth factor are associated
with increased risk of
preeclampsia, a serious
complication of pregnancy.
Early detection and
intervention can help
improve outcomes.
Effects of Nutrition on Maternal and Fetal
Health
Protein Intake Folate Supplementation

Helps support fetal growth and development. Prevents neural tube defects and supports fetal
Inadequate protein can lead to low birth weight brain development. Important for maternal
and developmental delays. health as well.

Iron Deficiency Fat Intake

Can lead to preterm birth and low birth weight. Essential for fetal brain development and
Inadequate maternal iron status can also building healthy tissues. However, excessive fat
impair fetal brain development. intake can lead to excessive weight gain and
gestational diabetes.
Nutritional Challenges During Pregnancy
Producing a healthy fetus is the main priority for pregnant women. However, quite a few mothers experience
nutritional challenges during pregnancy. For this reason, it is important for pregnant women to pay attention
to food intake so that fetal growth and development occurs optimally.

1 Iron Deficiency 2 Folic acid 3 Vitamin D

Iron plays an important Folic acid helps the Vitamin D plays an

role in forming red blood
cells and transporting
oxygen throughout the
body. Iron deficiency can
cause fatigue, anemia,
and premature birth.
formation of cells and the
digestive system in the
fetus. Folic acid
deficiency can cause
nerve and spinal cord
abnormalities in the
fetus.
important role in the
process of regulating
hormones and the body's
immunity. Vitamin D
deficiency can cause
premature birth and
stunted fetal growth.
The Importance of Biochemistry in Fetal
Development
"Fetal growth does not only depend on genetic factors, as environmental factors such as nutrition and
smoking also have a significant impact on fetal formation."

- Dr. Soedjatmiko

The minerals and nutrients needed by the fetus for optimal growth are regulated through complex
biochemical reactions in the mother's body. Studies show that good nutritional intake is very important to
reduce the risk of low birth weight babies and other developmental problems.

Prenatal vitamins such as folic acid help in cell Foods rich in nutrients such as protein and green
formation and the fetus' digestive system. vegetables help the fetus grow better.
The Role of Biochemistry in Assessing
Fetal Well-Being
1 Amniotic Fluid
Analysis
Analysis of amniotic fluid,
which contains fetal cells
and metabolites, is used
to assess the health and
development of the
fetus.
2 Non-Invasive 3 Biochemical
Prenatal Testing
(NIPT)
NIPT uses a blood
sample of the mother to
check for potential
chromosomal
abnormalities in the
fetus.
Markers for
Preterm Birth
Using specific
biochemical markers in
the maternal
bloodstream can help
predict the likelihood of
preterm birth and can be
utilized to intervene
before it happens.
Clinical Applications of
Biochemistry in Obstetrics
Diagnostics
Abnormalities in maternal or
fetal biochemistry can indicate a
range of conditions including
anemia, gestational diabetes,
and chromosomal
abnormalities.
1 Prenatal Screening
Biochemical markers can be
used to screen for a variety of
2 pregnancy-related
complications, allowing early
intervention and reducing the
risk of adverse outcomes.
3 Treatment Monitoring
Biochemical markers can help
monitor the effectiveness of
treatments such as iron
supplementation or glucose
control in gestational diabetes.
Laboratory Examination for Obstetrics

Biochemistry also plays an important role in laboratory examinations for the mother and fetus. For example,
tests for blood sugar and hormone levels such as progesterone can show whether the mother and fetus are
healthy. Genetic disorder testing may also be performed by analyzing blood to identify underlying genetic
mutations or chromosomal abnormalities.

Uric Acid High levels can cause preeclampsia,

hypertension, and premature birth.

Blood Glucose Measuring blood sugar levels to determine

whether pregnant women have gestational
diabetes mellitus.

Hematocrit and Hemoglobin Measuring red blood cell levels to find out
whether pregnant women suffer from anemia.
Future Implications and Advancements in
Biochemical Research for Midwifery

Constant research and advancement in the field of

biochemistry have yielded innovative approaches to maternal
and fetal care. The continued studies of biochemical markers in
pregnancy will reveal previously undiscovered tools to ensure
the best possible pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The biochemistry of pregnancy is an intricate and
complex area of study. Its knowledge is vital to the
understanding of maternal and fetal health. Through
continued research and the implementation of new
methods, midwives can provide the best care possible
for their patients.

Advancements in biochemistry have revolutionized

prenatal care, improving outcomes for both mothers
and babies. Looking forward, ongoing research will
continue to shed light on the complex metabolic
pathways and hormonal changes that occur during
pregnancy and help identify new targets for intervention
and treatment.
THANK
YOU