INFLUENCE OF CORTISOL DURING PREGNANCY ON FETAL DEVELOPMENT

Cortisol is the primary stress hormone whose concentration physiologically increases during pregnancy as part of normal endocrine adaptation. However, excessive elevations in cortisol levels due to chronic maternal stress can adversely affect intrauterine fetal development. Maternal cortisol crosses the placental barrier to some extent and influences fetal growth, nervous system formation, birth weight, and the risk of preterm delivery. This article reviews the mechanisms underlying maternal cortisol’s effects on the fetus, the role of the placenta in regulating hormonal influence, and the short-term and long-term consequences of elevated cortisol during pregnancy.