Matern Child Health J
October 2024
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between maternal work and infant feeding practices and explore the moderating impact of parental stress.
Methods: Prospective data on categorical hours worked and infant feeding practices were collected at 3 and 6 months postpartum in a prospective prenatal cohort of 95 women. Chi-square tests were used to compare change in proportion of exclusive breastfeeding from birth to 6 months and maternal work status.
Purpose Of Review: We review ontogeny of the maternal-offspring neuroendocrine relationship in human pregnancy. We present bidirectional genetic, physiological, and behavioral influences that enhance or disrupt HPA activity and its end product cortisol at the individual level and within the dyad.
Recent Findings: Consistent evidence supports that maternal mood and caregiving behavior are associated with maternal and offspring cortisol levels.