The saliva of pregnant women: a secret to mental health?

The saliva of pregnant women: a secret to mental health?

latest research results show that the saliva of pregnant women provides important insights into their mental state. Scientists at the Michigan State University have found that the bacterial flora in the mouth and throat space is clearly influenced by stress, fears or depression. This important study, published in the journal "BMJ Mental Health", includes 224 women in the second trimester of their pregnancy and shows a direct connection between the mental health of mothers and the composition of their oral bio. It is known that mental health plays an important role in the well -being of the mothers and their ability to take good care of their children, like Welt.de reported.

new insights into the oral biome

The study found that pregnant women with psychological stress have a changed diversity in their mouthpiece. While the group of firmicutes dominates in healthy pregnant women, the microbiomas were highly "alpha diversity" in those with strong fears. At the same time, specific bacteria in women with post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be detected. These results could offer important indications of gentle therapeutic interventions to improve mental health pregnant women in the future. The support of oral health could play a special role here through probiotic treatments and nutritional adjustments, such as Springer.com .

The microbioma could not only influence the psychological constitution, but also vice versa. In view of increasing, microbiomas are connected to neurobiological functions, the researchers call for a more comprehensive examination of the oral bio. These findings could help support mental health of mothers during pregnancy and possibly also have positive effects on the development of their children. As can be seen, the oral biome is a key that should flow into future therapies.