The Relationship Between Maternal Stress During Pregnancy And Adverse Perinatal Health Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Prenatal maternal stress has been noted as an important factor that affects fetal growth as well as birth health outcomes. Stress in the form of psychological, physiological and environmental factors can interfere with normal biological processes, leading to poor neonatal conditions. Objective: This research paper will explore the connection between maternal stress in pregnancy and adverse birth events such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and infant distress among other outcomes. Methodology: A qualitative study of the recent literature was carried out, and the studies evaluating the impact of maternal stress based on physiological (e.g., cortisol levels) and self-reported psychological measures were evaluated. Associations between stress levels and perinatal outcomes were assessed by means of a comparative analysis. Findings: Results suggest that high maternal stress correlates with a 25–40 per cent higher risk of preterm birth and a marked retardation in fetal growth. High cortisol concentrations and inflammatory reactions were found to be major mechanisms that connected stress with unfavorable consequences. Conclusion: Maternal stress is a powerful predictor of poor perinatal health. Integrated prenatal care strategies, early identification and stress management interventions are important to enhance maternal and neonatal health.