Description
Adaptations to maternal physiology are required for a successful pregnancy outcome. These changes are primarily orchestrated by the mother's brain and involve multiple neuroendocrine systems. For this book, the editors have gathered internationally recognized experts who have contributed to the major advances in our understanding ofdifferent aspects of the neuroendocrine regulation of mammalian pregnancy and lactation. The book begins with a discussion of how pregnancy is recognized and maintained and the role of the placental hormones in supporting key adaptations required for a successful pregnancy. The next few chapters focus on the neuroendocrine adaptations that occur during pregnancy in some key regulatory processes to ensure a sufficient supply of energy and nutrients, protect the fetus from potentially harmful maternal stress hormones, and prepare mammals for birth, milk production, lactation and motherhood. Finally, our current understanding of how the significant peripartum
