Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2004

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Jones, Nancy Aaron

Abstract

Maternal neuroendocrine function during pregnancy has been related to a number of pregnancy outcomes including less optimal fetal growth patterns. Animal models have consistently demonstrated that glucocorticoid infusions to the mother result in fetal growth restriction and norepinephrine infusions in reduced blood flow to the fetus. Similarly, human studies reveal that elevated maternal HPA axis and adrenal function (associated with stress anxiety and depression) during pregnancy is related to prematurity and low birthweight. The present study examined the relationship between maternal cortisol and norepinephrine and fetal growth measures during mid-gestation. Correlation analyses revealed that both maternal psychological (daily hassles, depression and anxiety) and biochemical (cortisol and norepinephrine) variables were negatively related to fetal growth measures. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses further revealed that maternal cortisol was the best single maternal predictor of fetal growth accounting for a significant portion of the variance even after controlling for gestational age and fetal gender. Results from the structural equation model indicate that the effects of maternal psychological distress on fetal growth are mediated by maternal cortisol. Potential mechanisms of action are discussed.

Extent

103 p.

Comments

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2004.|Thesis (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2004.

Identifier

FADT12100

Format

pdf

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