title: [Application of Epigenetics in Perinatal Nursing Care].
abstract: Epigenetics is a field of biomedicine that expanded tremendously during the 1980s. Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression independent of underlying DNA (DeoxyriboNucleic Acid) sequence, which not only affect this generation but will be passed to subsequent generations. Although conception is the critical moment for making decisions regarding gene mapping and fetal health, studies have shown that perinatal nursing care practices also affect the genetic remodeling processes and the subsequent health of the mother and her offspring. To optimize maternal-infant and the offspring health, it is important to ensure that the new mother get adequate nutrition, reduce stress levels, adopt gentle birth practices, facilitate exclusive breastfeeding, and avoid contacting toxic substances.
authors.affiliation: Department of Midwifery and Women Health Care, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Hsueh-Fen
authors.initials: HF
authors.lastname: Chou
authors.affiliation: Department of Midwifery and Women Health Care, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Chien-Huei
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Kao
authors.affiliation: Department of Midwifery and Women Health Care, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taiwan, ROC. meeiling@ntunhs.edu.tw.
authors.forename: Meei-Ling
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Gau
mesh_terms: D057890:Epigenomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007227:Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D039382:Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D017283:Neonatal Nursing
keywords: epigenetics; maternal health; offspring health; perinatal care