The children of women who undergo an extremely stressful event — such as the death of a partner or close relative — during the first trimester of pregnancy appear more likely to develop schizophrenia, according to a report in the Archives of General Psychiatry. "The common conception that a mother's psychological state can influence her unborn baby is to some extent substantiated," note the researchers involved. "Severe life events during pregnancy are consistently associated with an elevated risk of low birth weight and prematurity."
The researchers found that the risk of schizophrenia was approximately 67 percent greater among the offspring of women who were exposed to the death of a relative during the first trimester. Interestingly, the association between a family death and the risk of schizophrenia appeared to be significant only for individuals without a family history (parents, grandparents or siblings) of mental illness.
"Risk associated with exposure to a well-defined, objective stressful event confined to the first trimester of pregnancy suggests a number of possible mechanisms," the researchers write. Chemicals released by the mother's brain in response to stress may have an effect on the fetus' developing brain. These effects may be strongest in early pregnancy, when protective barriers between the mother and fetus are not fully constructed.
Related:
Experiences In Womb Can Profoundly Influence Adult Life
Low Birthweight A Predictor For Attention Disorders
Moderate Stress Levels In Mother May Benefit Fetus
Miscarriage Risk From Stress In Very Early Pregnancy
Flu During Pregnancy Linked To Schizophrenia
Source: Archives of General Psychiatry
