We know it: during pregnancy, it is essential to re-po-ser! Because nervousness and anxiety in pregnant women can have significant repercussions, first of all on the well-being of the mother-to-be: sleep disorders, fatigue, irritability, depression, even depressive symptoms …
And according to a recent study conducted by the University of Edinburgh (Scotland), stress during pregnancy also has an impact on the development of the fetus.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers (who published their work in the scientific journal eLife) collected hair from 78 pregnant women to measure their cortisol levels during their last 3 months of pregnancy.
During pregnancy, rest and take care of your mental health
Cortisol is a hormone (produced by the adrenal glands) which is particularly involved in stress, anxiety and nervousness. At the same time, pregnant women underwent examinations (non-invasive and non-dangerous for the fetus) in order to monitor the proper development of the unborn baby’s brain.
Results : the researchers found that in fetuses carried by pregnant women who were very stressed (and therefore had high levels of cortisol), the development of the amygdala was slightly different from normal. The amygdala is an area of the brain involved in the perception and feeling of emotions.
Children born to highly stressed mothers may experience emotional problems during their lifetimes, researchers say. Hence the need to take care of your mental health during pregnancy, by practicing relaxing activities (yoga, Pilates, mindfulness meditation, art therapy …) but also by asking for help if necessary. to health professionals (midwife, psychologist, gynecologist, psychiatrist …).
Read also :
Bleeding During Pregnancy: Is It Serious Or Not?
What if we could predict pregnancy complications through a simple blood test?
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
