Fetal Programming: An Explanation on How Maternal Stress Impacts Future Generations
摘要
The prevalence of stress in society is dramatically increasing and has been linked to several medical complications, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and immune dysfunction. This issue is particularly critical for pregnant women, one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. Maternal stress during pregnancy can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes and, in severe cases, may even lead to pregnancy loss. Moreover, stress during pregnancy not only affects maternal health but also disrupts placental growth and function, which in turn can impair fetal development. As a result, fetal growth and organ maturation may be compromised, increasing the risk of late-onset diseases in adulthood due to stress-induced fetal programming. This chapter presents compelling epidemiological and experimental evidence demonstrating how maternal stress influences offspring health and its effects on fetal organ development. Specifically, it describes how prenatal stress increases the risk of adult-onset conditions, including cardiometabolic disorders, neurological diseases, alterations in reproductive health, and even certain types of cancer. Additionally, it discusses emerging interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of prenatal stress on both maternal well-being and fetal programming.