Investigating how stress affects fetal brain development
The Impact of Stress on Fetal Brain Development
University Hospital Tuebingen · NCT03831126
This study is trying to see how stress during pregnancy affects the brain development of unborn babies, especially when moms are given a specific medication.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University Hospital Tuebingen (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Tübingen) |
| Trial ID | NCT03831126 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the impact of acute maternal stress on the fetal autonomic nervous system, particularly focusing on the effects of the artificial glucocorticoid betamethasone. It seeks to understand how increased maternal stress levels during pregnancy can adversely affect fetal physiological, metabolic, and neuronal development. The study will measure fetal heart and brain activity using biomagnetic sensors to assess these effects. By examining these relationships, the research hopes to shed light on the long-term implications of maternal stress on child health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are German-speaking pregnant women between 28 and 34 weeks of gestation who are receiving betamethasone treatment for fetal lung function.
Not a fit: Patients who smoke regularly, consume alcohol or drugs during pregnancy, have congenital fetal disorders, are on bed rest, or have acute depression or other psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of maternal stress during pregnancy, potentially enhancing fetal health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While there is growing evidence regarding the effects of maternal stress on fetal development, this specific approach using biomagnetic sensors and the glucocorticoid betamethasone is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * German speakers (fluently) * Gestational age between 28 and 34 weeks * Treatment with Betamethasone for improvement of fetal lung function - Exclusion Criteria: * Smoking (regularly) * Alcohol and drug consumption during pregnancy * Congenital fetal disorders * Women with bed rest * acute depression or other psychiatric disorder (self report)
Where this trial is running
Tübingen
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Women's Health — Tübingen, Germany (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jan Pauluschke-Fröhlich, MD
- Email: jan.pauluschke-froehlich@med.uni-tuebingen.de
- Phone: 07071 2983111
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Pregnancy