Author:
Nyström-Hansen Maja,Andersen Marianne Skovsager,Davidsen Kirstine Agnete,Roehder Katrine,Trier Christopher,Nayberg Emilie,Lyons-Ruth Karlen,Harder Susanne
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Maternal cortisol levels in pregnancy may support the growth of or adversely affect fetal organs, including the brain. While moderate cortisol levels are essential for fetal development, excessive or prolonged elevations may have negative health consequences for both the mother and the offspring. Little is known about predictors of altered hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity during pregnancy. This study examined maternal hair cortisol concentration (HCC) in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy in relation to severe psychopathology.
Methods
Hair samples were collected from 69 women, 32 with a lifetime diagnosis of severe mental disorders (bipolar I or II disorder, moderate or severe depressive disorder, schizophrenic spectrum disorder), and 37 non-clinical controls. Hair samples were collected during the 3rd trimester, and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used for cortisol assessment. Psychiatric diagnosis and current level of symptomatic functioning were assessed using the structured clinical interview from the DSM-5 and the global assessment of functioning scale.
Results
Women with a lifetime diagnosis of severe mental illness had significantly elevated HCC compared to controls. Poorer current symptomatic functioning was also significantly associated with elevated HCC in pregnancy.
Conclusions
The implications of alterations in HCC on both maternal and infant health need further study.
Funder
Danmarks Frie Forskningsfond
Region Syddanmark
Region Hovedstaden
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
Scottish Mental Health Research Network
Copenhagen University
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health,Obstetrics and Gynecology