Modern understanding of the impact of stress on the immune system of pregnant women

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15574/HW.2024.170.79

Keywords:

pregnancy, mental health in pregnancy, immune system, neuroendocrine changes

Abstract

Today, there is increasing attention being paid to mental health, especially in pregnant women who are vulnerable to the risk of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite scientific progress, research on the impact of stress on mental health during pregnancy is insufficient.

Purpose - to analyze the impact of stress on the immune system of pregnant women.

A search and analysis of 78 original studies investigating the impact of stress on the course of pregnancy were conducted. Keywords and article selection criteria were applied. The systematic review included the most relevant studies that met the established criteria.

The findings indicate that the immune system plays a significant role in the development of stress-related mental disorders during pregnancy. However, most studies do not establish a clear link between stress, inflammation, and mental disorders in pregnant women.

Conclusions. The review highlights the need for further research aimed at understanding the relationship between stress, the immune system, and mental health in pregnant women. This will help develop effective methods for the prevention and treatment of mental disorders in this population, promoting healthy pregnancy outcomes and the birth of healthy children.

No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

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Published

2024-02-28