Pregnancy may cause “pregnancy gingivitis”, beginning in the 2nd-3rd month increasing in severity through the 8th month.
The increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy can cause the gums to respond differently to the bacteria in the plaque, which can cause swollen, bleeding, and red gums. About half of all pregnant women will experience “pregnancy gingivitis“. However, women without gingivitis (gingivitis or periodontitis) prior to their pregnancy are unlikely to experience this.
In some cases, the gums can react strongly to local irritants and form a large lump in the gums called pregnancy tumor or pyogenic granuloma. They occur mainly in the second trimester, between the teeth, bleed easily and are related to too much plaque formation. They usually disappear after birth, but if they do not, they must be removed by the dentist.
Pre-Term Child birth – Premature child birth
Studies have shown an association between periodontitis and premature underweight babies. Any infection, including periodontitis, should be avoided throughout pregnancy. Pregnant women with periodontitis are actually 7 times more likely to give birth prematurely. This is probably because parodontitis leads to accelerated production of hormones and a labor-inducing chemical (prostaglandin) that triggers premature delivery.