What happens in the womb can last a lifetime
Click here to see the video
Epigenetics
Click here to see the video
We are all interested in understanding what makes us who we are.
We all also want to make sure that every child gets the best possible start in life.
We have known for a long time that how we turn out depends on both our genes and our environment. What we now realize is that the influence of the environment begins in the womb, and how the mother feels during pregnancy can change this environment and can have a lasting effect on the development of her child.
Therefore, we all need to support and look after pregnant women, both for their sake and that of future generations. We need to Begin Before Birth.
We hope that this site will prove useful to a wide range of people who are interested in understanding more about the importance of the environment in the womb, including:
- Mothers
who want to understand the importance of stress in pregnancy, how this can affect their well-being and what they can do to help manage their own stress
Mothers and fathers may also be interested in learning more about how the fetus develops, the importance of the father, family & friends during pregnancy and the effects of fetal programming on the baby and child
- Students
who are interested in the science behind fetal programming and fetal development, including the evolutionary background, the importance of epigenetics and the placenta, and supporting evidence from animal models
Students may also be interested in the social implications discussed in Charlie’s story and public policy
- Health Professionals
who want to understand more about stress in pregnancy, its relationship with fetal programming and fetal development , how this may affect the baby and child, and what can be done to help
Professor Vivette Glover has devised a meeting specifically on this topic for medical professionals, policy makers and anyone interested about these issues.
The meeting will take place on Friday, 21 June 2013 at the Wolfson Education Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK, and all are welcome.
For full information please click here and then click on Begin Before Birth
Below are links to some videos and games which provide more information on fetal programming and stress in pregnancy
What happens in the womb can last a lifetime
Click here to see the video
Epigenetics
Click here to see the video
From Cortisol to Cortisone
Click here to play the game
The STROOP game
Click here to play the STROOP game