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Revista Matronas

Revista Matronas

DICIEMBRE 2025 N° 3 Volumen 13

The influence of epigenetic factors on pregnancy: consequences in maternal-fetal health

Section: Revisions

How to quote

González García R, Carvalho Da Silva MJ. Influencia de los factores epigenéticos en la gestación: consecuencias en la salud materno-fetal. Matronas Hoy 2025; 13(3):36-41.

Authors

1Rocío González García, 1María Joana Carvalho Da Silva

Position

1 Enfermeras especialistas en Obstetricia y Ginecología (Matronas). Hospital Materno-Infantil del H. U. R. de Málaga. España.

Contact email: rociogonzalez281199@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction: epigenetics is the science than studies the influence of environmental factors on gene activation or deactivation without altering the DNA sequence, affecting the health of organisms. Its mechanisms are present from gametogenesis until fetal development, associating the maternal environment with alterations in maternal-fetal health.

Objectives: to study the impact of epigenetics on fetal development during pregnancy. Also to analyse the connection between stress, nutrition, and other external factors, upon epigenetics and its outcomes in maternal-fetal health. 

Methodology: a systematic review of literature using DeCS, MeSH in databases; 32 articles were reviewed, dated between 2014 and 2024, in Spanish or English.

Results: maternal stress during pregnancy has a negative impact on fetal development, altering the length of telomeres, DNA methylation, and histones. Maternal nutrition, maternal smoking, exposure to contaminants, and alcoholism, have an impact on fetal epigenetics, with effects that may persist during generations.

Discussion: epigenetics are key in fetal development, because they regulate the association between genetic and environmental factors, mediated by maternal health. Maternal nutrition, obesity, or diabetes, have an impact on epigenetic programming, causing a risk of future metabolic diseases. Midwives play an important role on epigenetic impact during pregnancy.

Conclusions: this science requires more research for its correct understanding. It is particularly necessary to encourage the study of medications, drugs, emotions, and other environmental factors and their consequences on maternal-fetal health.

Keywords:

diet; epigenetic memory; pregnancy; maternal stress; midwivesmaternal-fetal health

Versión en Español

Título:

Influencia de los factores epigenéticos en la gestación: consecuencias en la salud materno-fetal

Artículo completo no disponible en este idioma / Full article is not available in this language

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