Pregnancy-associated gingivitis is primarily the result of:

Pregnancy-associated gingivitis primarily results from increased steroid hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which rise significantly during pregnancy. These hormonal changes can affect the body’s inflammatory response and alter the microbial environment in the oral cavity.

The increase in progesterone enhances the permeability of blood vessels, making the gums more susceptible to inflammation. Progesterone also influences the production of inflammatory mediators, which can lead to an exaggerated response to dental plaque. As a result, women may experience increased gum sensitivity, swelling, and redness, which characterizes pregnancy-associated gingivitis.

Understanding the influence of these hormones is critical for recognizing the underlying mechanisms of gingival changes during pregnancy. While other options may involve factors affecting oral health, such as trauma or dietary deficiencies, they do not directly relate to the hormonal alterations that cause the specific presentation of gingivitis in pregnant individuals.