Pre-pregnancy stress can lead to underweight in newborns

Mothers should urgently avoid stress before pregnancy to protect their child
An elevated pre-pregnancy stress hormone level may cause newborns to have a low birth weight. Thus, the stress of expectant mothers can directly affect the weight of their child.

Stress is responsible for many diseases. However, not only does the stressed person suffer the effects. Scientists from the University of California have now found out in an investigation that stress in expectant mothers can lead to their babies having lower birth weight. The researchers published the results of their study in the journal "Health Psychology".

Stress in pregnant women can cause newborns to weigh too little at birth. In addition, the probability of some diseases increases. (Image: Monkey Business / fotolia.com)

High levels of cortisol and chronic stress trigger various illnesses
The concentration of the stress hormone cortisol is particularly high in the morning and drops during the day. But some people have a low cortisol level in the morning and experience only a smaller decline during the day, explain the researchers. This abnormal pattern has been linked to chronic stress or previous trauma for a range of conditions. These include, for example, some cancers and arteriosclerosis. In addition, the weight of the baby can be influenced, say the doctors. The same cortisol pattern that has been associated with chronic stress can make newborns weigh less at birth, says study author Christine Guardino of the University of California. She and her colleagues studied 142 pregnant women for their study. To assess women's stress, researchers analyzed blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), cortisol levels in saliva, and other factors.

Feet from stressed mothers can get less nutrients and oxygen
More than 300,000 babies with low birth weight are born each year in the United States alone. These babies are at an increased risk of developing health problems, and low birth weight can even lead to death. Increased levels of cortisol in expectant mothers can lower blood flow to the fetus and thus reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients, says co-author Professor Chris Dunkel Schetter of the University of California. If women are planning to become pregnant, they should have their stress levels assessed and, if necessary, take action to reduce them if necessary, adds Prof. Schetter.

Reduce the stress level before pregnancy
Improving pre-concept health can have a profound impact on, and even improve, the overall health of the child. Women should have existing depression treated, the stress level should be evaluated and, if necessary, treated as well, say the doctors. Be sure to live in a healthy relationship, be physically active, and stop smoking. Family support can help reduce stress levels, the researchers explain. Everything that helps to create an optimal pregnancy and a better, stress-free and healthy life for the expectant mother, should be done before the pregnancy begins, advises Prof. Schetter. (As)