Maternal Stress Across the Maternal–Fetal Interface.

Abstract

Maternal psychological stress during pregnancy is increasingly recognized as an important component of the maternal–fetal environment, interacting with neuroendocrine, inflammatory, metabolic, oxidative, genetic, and placental pathways. Rather than representing a direct cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes, maternal distress should be understood within a multidimensional framework of biological vulnerability and physiological adaptation. Emerging evidence supports moving beyond isolated biomarkers toward integrated assessment and, importantly, translating research into action. This editorial highlights a continuum from maternal-stress research and early identification to workforce education, screening and referral, and accessible, culturally appropriate interventions. Integrating maternal mental health into routine antenatal care may provide an important opportunity to move from documenting risk toward prevention, resilience, and better long-term health for mothers and their children.