What does the foetus give to mother?

During pregnancy, the fetus plays an active role in the physiological changes that occur in the mother's body. While the mother provides nourishment and support for the developing fetus, the fetus also contributes to the maintenance of the pregnancy and the well-being of the mother. Here are some of the things the fetus gives to the mother:

1. Hormones:

The fetus produces hormones that have various effects on the mother's body. These hormones help regulate the mother's immune system, metabolism, and reproductive system to support the pregnancy. For example, the hormone progesterone produced by the placenta helps relax the uterine muscles and promotes the growth of uterine blood vessels, essential for nourishing the fetus.

2. Physical Adaptations:

The growth and development of the fetus stimulate physical adaptations in the mother's body. To accommodate the growing uterus, the mother's abdomen expands, leading to an increase in abdominal girth and stretching of the skin. The fetus's movements and kicks can provide sensory stimulation and establish a bond between the mother and the developing baby.

3. Emotional Connection:

The presence of the fetus can evoke strong emotional responses in the mother. As the pregnancy progresses, the mother may experience feelings of attachment, love, and protectiveness toward her unborn child. This emotional connection can be further strengthened through prenatal care, such as regular check-ups and monitoring the baby's growth.

4. Fetal Microchimerism:

During pregnancy, fetal cells can cross the placenta and enter the mother's circulation, leading to a phenomenon known as fetal microchimerism. These fetal cells can persist in the mother's body for years or even decades after birth and may have potential implications for the mother's health, including immune regulation and tissue repair.

5. Immunological Benefits:

Pregnancy can induce immunological changes in the mother that provide benefits beyond the gestational period. The interaction between the maternal immune system and fetal cells can lead to immune tolerance, reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases and improving overall immune function.

It's important to note that the exchanges between the mother and the fetus are complex and bidirectional, with both parties influencing each other's physiology and well-being throughout the pregnancy and beyond.