Citation

Horan DL, Hill LD, Schulkin J. Womens Health Issues 2000; 10(1): 27-33.

Affiliation

Division of Women's Health Issues, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Georgetown University, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10697466

Abstract

Anecdotal reports link adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm delivery, to women with histories of childhood sexual abuse. Although little research has been conducted on this subject, we provide an overview of known health effects of violence against women and posit a biological explanation for adverse pregnancy outcomes among this population. Specifically, we hypothesize that early traumatic experiences of childhood sexual abuse may activate corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) gene expression in the brain, and a vulnerability to elevated CRH gene expression in the placenta. Those traumatized by early abuse may be more susceptible to stress vís a vís CRH dysregulation during a major psychosocial stressor, such as pregnancy. Elevated CRH has been associated with preterm labor.

Language: en