Author: Mufti Noor Mohammad Mohibi
The Quran: A Miracle Beyond Time- A Study of Its Miraculous Nature (Part 45)
The Effects of Psychological Pressures During Pregnancy and the Importance of Natural Nutrition of the mother on the Health of the Fetus
The period of pregnancy is one of the most sensitive stages in every woman’s life, and the physical and psychological health of the mother has a direct and significant effect on the growth of the fetus and the future health of the child. In this discussion, based on modern scientific findings, the effects of severe psychological stress on the fetus and also the importance of natural nutrition and maternal affection in improving the physical and mental health of the child are examined.
Part One: The Effect of Psychological Stress on the Fetus
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The mechanism of the effect of psychological stress
Studies in psychology and medicine show that psychological pressure and severe anxiety in pregnant mothers cause significant hormonal changes. One of the most important of these changes is the increase in the secretion of the hormone cortisol, which plays a key role in regulating the body’s response to stress. The increase of cortisol causes a rise in blood sugar, disturbance in placental blood flow, and a decrease in the level of oxygen supply to the fetal tissues. This unfavorable environmental condition provides the ground for the occurrence of structural and functional abnormalities in the fetus.
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Clinical consequences of psychological stress in pregnancy
Epidemiological research shows that severe psychological stress, such as loss of employment, divorce, separation of spouses, and painful life events, is associated with an increase in the rate of babies born with congenital defects, including cleft palate and lip. These complications arise from the metabolic and hemodynamic disorders of the mother, which directly affect the fetus.
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The role of mental health in prevention
Improving the mental condition of the mother through psychological support, strengthening faith and religious beliefs, performing spiritual activities, and creating inner calmness can be considered effective strategies in reducing the negative effects of stress. Studies have shown that women who benefit from strong spiritual and psychological support have a significantly lower chance of suffering from psychological and physical disorders during pregnancy and of experiencing adverse fetal outcomes.
Part Two: The Importance of Maternal Affection and Natural Feeding with Her Milk
Mother’s milk contains complex and specialized biochemical compounds that are biologically adapted to the needs of the child. These compounds include proteins, fats, vitamins, enzymes, and specific antibodies that play an essential role in the growth and development of the child’s immune and digestive systems.
Cow’s milk, which is used as a substitute for mother’s milk, contains more proteins and acids that may not be suitable for the digestive system of infants and may lead to digestive problems and pressure on the kidneys.
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The benefits of feeding with mother’s milk on the health of the child
Numerous clinical studies have shown that children who are fed with their mother’s milk have a significantly reduced risk of intestinal and respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, and even some chronic diseases in adulthood such as type 1 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Also, mother’s milk is the main source of antibodies that are naturally transferred from the mother to the child and strengthen the immune system.
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Psychological and social benefits of breastfeeding
Beyond the physiological aspects, breastfeeding strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child, which has deep and positive effects on the child’s psychological and social development. Also, the act of breastfeeding, as a natural process, helps stabilize social behaviors and improve the child’s cognitive performance.
Part Three: Scientific and Religious Recommendations About Breastfeeding
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The appropriate duration of breastfeeding
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for at least six months, and after that, up to two years or more, breastfeeding should continue along with supplementary food. This duration is scientifically consistent with meeting the nutritional needs and strengthening the immune system of the child.
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Substitutes and conditions for their use
In situations where the mother is unable to breastfeed, the best option is the use of a healthy nursing woman, because infant formula can never be a complete and reliable substitute for mother’s milk and may have negative consequences for the child’s health. Attention to the health condition and quality of the milk of the nursing woman is of special importance.
In conclusion, the mental health of the mother and natural nutrition through breastfeeding are two key factors in ensuring the health and optimal growth of the fetus and child. Severe psychological stress can, by causing hormonal and physiological disturbances, endanger the health of the fetus and lead to congenital defects. On the other hand, feeding with mother’s milk not only provides the nutrients necessary for the child but also strengthens his immune system and facilitates his psychological development. Following scientific and religious recommendations in this field is the key to achieving a stable and capable healthy society.
Acting upon divine and scientific instructions concerning the importance of mental health and natural nutrition is a reliable path for ensuring the health of both the individual and society — a point constantly emphasized by scholars and developmental psychologists.
Continues…
