OSU study links stress of mothers to fetal brain development

About one in five women in the United States experience maternal mental health conditions, and chronic stress can exacerbate challenges, according to a new study (Source: “New study finds link between stress during pregnancy, fetal brain development,” Spectrum News Ohio, Oct. 13).
 
According to the study from researchers at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, chronic stress during pregnancy changes how the placenta communicates with the developing fetus, impacting the delivery of oxygen and necessary nutrients to the fetus and potentially impacting early brain development. These effects may point to the linkage between stress during pregnancy and fetal development. 
 
“The findings are quite remarkable. We found that the placenta isn’t simply a passive organ. It’s an active communication system between the mother and fetus. Our research suggests that stress can shift that communication in ways that may matter for brain development,” said Dr. Tamar Gur, an OSU researcher.