Comparison of the effect of receiving three different stresses during pregnancy on anxiety in male rats

مقایسه تأثير سه استرس مختلف دوران بارداری بر اضطراب موش‌های صحرایی تولدیافته

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence shows that pregnancy conditions have a lasting effect on the fetus. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of three common stresses, namely electromagnetic field, social stress and immobility during embryonic period on anxiety in male born.

Methods: In this experimental study, pregnant female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, including: 1. Control (with normal pregnancy) 2. Exposed to electromagnetic waves 2. Receiving immobility stress and 3. Sochial stress. The 3 treatment groups received one of the namely different stresses daily from the 8 to the 18th day of pregnancy. 2 months after the birth, the anxiety level of the male offspring was assessed using plus maze.

Results: The mean percentage of open arms entrance and their presence was significantly decreased and the duration and presence on the closes arm increased in newborns from mothers who were exposed to different stresses during pregnancy compared to the control.

Conclusion: According to the findings, fetal stress increases anxiety disorders in children. Also, immobility stress had the greatest effect and social stress had the least effect on anxiety.