Effects of stress on pregnancy in the rat

Abstract

In previous studies, it has been shown that restraint stress results in maximal activation of adrenocortical secretions. The data from the current study suggest that stress of this intensity can interfere with the reproductive process at several stages. The effect of each of the treatments seemed to be restricted to the period of stress administration. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of stress on pregnancy. The ability of stress to interrupt reproductive processes at several stages suggests that the mechanism of action could include alterations in gonadotrophin secretions, luteal or placental secretions or uterine blood flow.