In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Prenatal Effects Independent of Genetics

This study examines how maternal stress during pregnancy affects infant brain and behavioral development, focusing on whether these effects are due to the prenatal environment or shared genes. By comparing IVF pregnancies using donor eggs/embryos (no shared genetics) with non-donor IVF pregnancies, the investigators aim to understand how stress influences the baby's development independent of genetic factors. Participants will complete questionnaires, provide blood samples, and take part in placenta and cord blood collection, fetal monitoring, and newborn brain activity assessments. Aim 1: The influence of maternal distress on perinatal neurobehavioral development. Hypotheses: Independent of IVF group status, higher maternal AL will be associated with higher 3rd trimester FHR reactivity, lower FHR variability, AND lower FHR-movement coupling Aim 2: Maternal distress affecting placenta gene methylation. Hypotheses: Independent of IVF group status, maternal AL will be associated with placenta differential DNA methylation in glucocorticoid-regulating genes (FKBP5 and HSD11B2), Aim 3: Maternal experiences associated with unique placenta transcriptomic profiles. Hypotheses: Independent of IVF group status, maternal AL and well-being each will be associated with unique placenta gene expression in pro-inflammatory genes

NCT Number	NCT07296107
Lead Sponsor	Columbia University Collaborators: University of California, Los Angeles, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Conditions	Maternal Distress, Child Development
Enrollment	360 participants
Start Date	2026-05-08
Primary Completion	2030-07-31 (estimated)
Study Completion	2030-07-31 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-07-07