Evaluating the Impact of Perinatal Depression on Fetal and Childhood Development

Perinatal maternal depression leads to a variety of biochemical and behavioral changes in utero. These alterations are linked impaired fetal development may also be detrimental future neonatal, pediatric, adolescent health. There is marked rise the incidence atopic triad conditions, such as dermatitis asthmatic wheezing, children pregnant mothers with antepartum depression, possibly due an aberrant TH2 immunologic response increased oxidative stress. Maternal contribute small-for-gestational age birth status, anomalous neurotransmitter levels, throughout infancy adolescence. Cortisol has been implicated common causative factor responsible for many these negative offspring outcomes. Minimal research on untreated major pregnancy conducted. However, current studies emphasize importance holistically evaluating risks associated order minimize harmful effects children.