The impact of maternal premating stress on the postnatal outcomes of offspring in rodent studies: A systematic review

Maternal premating stress (mPMS) has been linked to adverse outcomes in the next generation. In this systematic review, we examined the impact of mPMS on offspring's neurodevelopmental milestones, behavioral outcomes, and physiological alterations before and after adulthood in rodent studies. We conducted a systematic literature review using PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and APA PsycNet, using the terms "premating stress", "pregestational stress", “prepregnancy stress, and "preconception stress”. Thirty studies that met exclusion and inclusion criteria and contained relevant data were included. The reviewed literature suggests that mPMS can delay progeny's neurobehavioral development during the first week of life and increase their stress\anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, especially before postnatal day 60. Furthermore, male offspring's memory abilities may be impaired, although learning ability remained intact in both sexes. Finally, mPMS appear to have a negative impact mainly on male offsprings’ social behaviors. Some physiological alterations are discussed in relation to these behavioral outcomes, but cautiously, as studies’ foci were highly diverse and prevented identifying consistent patterns of results. We also note that dams’ recovery period, stress intensity and severity, type, duration, and offspring's weaning age should be considered in future studies.