Increased Pregnancy Complications Among Mothers with Adverse Childhood Experiences: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study
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Background
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events and family challenges that occur during childhood (0-17 years). Extensive research has linked ACEs to adverse effects throughout life. However, recent studies suggest that ACEs may also have intergenerational consequences, influencing pregnancy complications and perinatal outcomes.
Objective
In this study, we aim to explore the association between maternal ACEs and perinatal outcomes in the Dutch context.
Participants and Setting
In this retrospective cross-sectional observational study, survey data from 819 mothers with a singleton child under 2 years of age were analysed.
Methods
We used logistic and linear regression models to analyse the association between self-reported ACE-10 scores, pregnancy complications and birth outcomes. Adjusted models included maternal education as a proxy for socio-economic position.
Results
ACEs were common: 46.3% of mothers had experienced 1-3 ACEs and 17.5% reported ≥4 ACEs. Mothers with ≥4 ACEs had 1.55 times higher odds of pregnancy complications (aOR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.01–2.37, p = 0.045). Linear regression showed a similar trend (aOR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.99–1.16, p = 0.085). No associations were found for prematurity, small for gestational age, NICU admission, birth weight, or gestational age.
Conclusions
Maternal ACEs were associated with pregnancy complications (gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or premature rupture of membranes) but not directly with birth outcomes like prematurity or low birth weight. These findings highlight the importance of early psychosocial risk detection. Strengthening preventive care with systems may help mitigate intergenerational adversity, even without formal ACE screening.
