The study, led by the University of Washington Medical School, included 164 pregnant women living in Germany. When the umbilical cord blood iron limit of 107 fetuses measured at birth was compared with a control group, the iron absorption rate was reduced by a whopping 15% in the fetuses of pregnant women experiencing chronic stress. This effect was more pronounced when the fetus was a boy, the researchers explain.
Martin Frasch, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Washington School of Medicine, one of the study’s authors, made it clear that even moderate changes in a mother’s iron levels usually do not significantly affect the fetus. “Our observations from this study show that boys are less likely than girls to control iron health when mothers are under chronic stress, which may affect postnatal neurodevelopment,” said Prof. said
On average, pregnant women need regarding 30 mg of iron per day to meet new demands for increased blood volume, placental development, and fetal growth. Almost twice the amount needed for a non-pregnant woman.
Considering that iron requirements are higher during the second trimester (13th to 26th weeks) and later (following 27 weeks), expectant mothers should monitor their stress levels and make efforts to reduce stress. The researchers recommend considering taking iron supplements if chronic stress persists and monitoring the baby’s iron levels following delivery.
Nearly half of pregnant women in developed countries experience iron deficiency, a study previously reported that might affect low birth weight or fetal neurodevelopment. According to Prof. Prasch, stress is known to affect fetal brain development.
Another study, the corresponding author of which Prof. Prasch, reported that wearable devices or regular check-ups might track the stress experienced by pregnant women and prevent delays in their child’s development following childbirth.
Prof Prash added that the next study will look at how mothers can reduce stress through yoga, meditation and other stress-relieving techniques.
Reporter Jeong Hee-eun [email protected]
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