A startling revelation has emerged from a medical expert, Dr Maryam Ahmed Almustapha, an Abuja-based specialist, who has highlighted the alarming consequences of beating and physical abuse on pregnant women.

In an interview with our correspondent, Dr Almustapha asserted that violence against pregnant women can lead to intellectual disability in their children, sparking concerns about the welfare of unborn babies.
According to her, physical abuse during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications, including potential impacts on fetal development, suggesting links between maternal trauma and cognitive or fetal brain developmental issues in children.

She emphasised that this is a critical issue that requires immediate attention, as it not only affects the mother but also the unborn child.
“Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in maternal blood, which reflects fetal genome, can be elevated due to maternal stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

“This can lead to placental dysfunction, immune activation and epigenetic reprogramming, ultimately affecting fetal neurodevelopment,” she noted.
The medical doctor stressed that cell-free DNA can serve as a biomarker for the impact of maternal mental health on fetal brain outcomes, adding that maternal stress can increase cell-free DNA, which may become a bridge between maternal mental health and fetal brain development.

She said the implications are clear: pregnant women need protection and support to ensure a healthy condition for their unborn children.
The expert’s warning sparks concerns among expectant mothers and the general public and highlights the need for increased awareness and action to prevent violence against pregnant women.

Dr Almustapha’s revelation also points out the need for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to take concrete steps to prevent violence against pregnant women and promote healthy fetal development.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that violence against women is a significant public health problem globally, with pregnant women being particularly vulnerable.

WHO statistics indicate that between 4% and 12% of pregnant women experience physical abuse, highlighting the need for urgent action.
This underscores the importance of addressing maternal mental health to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.