For magnetic resonance proton spectroscopy to be of potential future use in investigating placental dysfunction in-utero, a normal range of detectable metabolites is required. Seventy-seven healthy pregnant women with an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy were scanned between 20 and 40 week's gestation. Robust quality assurance removed compromised data and spectra were quantified for the commonly observed peaks and metabolites expected in the placenta. A characteristic spectrum was observed, which was independent of gestational age. Quantification of this technique in terms of the expected results and their variability will inform future studies and suggest technical improvements that may be useful.
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