Maternal antibodies

Maternal antibodies are protective proteins that a mother passes to her baby, primarily through the placenta during pregnancy and through breast milk after birth. These antibodies help shield the newborn from various infections and diseases while their immune system is still developing. This natural transfer of immunity is crucial for the baby’s early life, providing time for their own immune system to mature and build its defense against pathogens. Essentially, maternal antibodies give newborns a temporary boost in protection during their vulnerable early weeks and months.