Background Higher intakes of foods containing omega‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty
acids (LCPUFA), such as fish, during pregnancy have been associated with longer
gestations and improved perinatal outcomes. This is an update of a review that was first
published in 2006. Objectives To assess the effects of omega‐3 LCPUFA, as supplements
or as dietary additions, during pregnancy on maternal, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes
and longer‐term outcomes for mother and child.

Preterm birth is a leading cause of disability or death in the first 5 years of life. Higher intake
of foods containing omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), such as
fish, during pregnancy has been associated with longer gestations and improved perinatal
outcomes. It is suggested that additional omega-3 LCPUFAs in pregnancy may reduce the
number of babies born preterm and may improve outcomes for children and mothers.
However, many pregnant women do not eat fish to the degree consistent with levels that …