Riya Baibhawi

What Is Microchimerism? Experts Explain

Preganancy

Pregnancy

What if I told you that your mother's cells are forever in you and vice-versa? Science has now validated this phenomenon, offering comfort to many women who have experienced loss. This process is called microchimerism, a condition where cells that aren't originally yours exist within your body.

Microchimerism most commonly occurs during pregnancy but can also result from organ transplants, blood donation, and certain medical conditions. The term itself is derived from the mythological chimera, a fire-breathing beast made of parts from three animals: a lion, a snake, and a goat.

There are two main types of microchimerism:

1. Maternal Microchimerism: During pregnancy, cells pass between the mother and fetus through the placenta in a two-way exchange. Maternal cells enter the child’s body, while fetal cells enter the mother’s. These fetal cells can remain in the mother’s body for years—sometimes as long as 27 years after birth. Similarly, maternal cells may persist in the child’s body long after birth. 

2. Fetal Microchimerism: This phenomenon is particularly poignant for women who have experienced miscarriage or child loss. Studies show that even after such events, fetal cells may continue to reside in the mother’s body, providing a lasting connection. 

Once the placenta implants in the uterus—generally early in pregnancy—the exchange of cells begins. These cells travel through the circulatory system and can lodge themselves in various parts of the body, including the lungs, heart, skin, and other tissues.

Although most studies on microchimerism have been conducted on animals, they provide valuable insights. Researchers believe that fetal cells move throughout the mother’s body via the circulatory system. However, the exact destinations of these cells in humans remain uncertain. 

In one study, titled Male Microchimerism in the Human Female Brain, published in PLoS One, researchers explored how these cells may integrate into the mother’s body. This area of study continues to shed light on the fascinating ways in which mothers and their children remain biologically connected long after birth.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Microchimerism

male microchimerism

Women preganancy

parenting

Is Your Sore Throat Viral, Bacterial Or Allergic? Find Out Here

Foods That Might Contain Insects: The List Will Left You Surprised

This Is The Best Cooking Oil Experts Recommend For Longevity And Wellness

Health & Wellness

10 Tips To Help Muscle Recovery

6-6-6 Walking Routine Can Help You Stay Fit

10 Breathing Exercises To Try When You’re Feeling Anxious

10 Ways To Beat Morning Fatigue

10 Type Of Squats You Can Do For Weight Loss

Soaked vs. Roasted Chickpeas: Which One is Healthier?

10 Ways For Busy People To Stay Active

10 High-Calorie Foods to Watch Out For At Gatherings

10 Brain Exercises to Improve Your Focus and Memory

Creative Ways to Complete Your 10,000 Steps Indoors

10 Best Carb Choices for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

10 White Foods to Avoid for Better Weight Loss Results

10 Delicious Mediterranean Diet Dinners: Low-Carb and High-Protein Options

Healthy and Protein-Packed Late-Night Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings

10 Negative Habits That Drain Your Mind’s Power

10 Brain-Boosting Activities to Sharpen Your Mind

10 Protein-Rich Breakfast Dishes To Try

10 Signs Your Heart Is Healthy

10 Foods To Improve Your Brain Health

10 Foods That Boost Your Metabolism

10 Exercise To Improve Grip Strength

10 Staple Foods To Make Eating Healthy Easier

10 Foods You Should Eat If You Are Weight-Training

10 Basics Rules Of Weight Training

10 Ways To Deal With Winter Dry Skin

Workout Week: 10 Back Exercises To Do At Gym

10 Healthy Chicken Recipes For Winter

10 Morning Habits That Can Make You Sick

10 Superfood To Help You Build Immunity

10 Cardio Exercises To Lose Belly Fat

10 Benefits Of Morning Runs

10 Intermittent Fasting Mistakes People Make

10 Toxic Morning Habits To Quit

10 Natural Ways To You Deal With Winter Dryness

10 Reasons Why Pickles Are Good For Winters

10 Healthy Custard Apple Recipes

10 Fun Activities To Build Your Kid’s Strength

10 Benefits Of Fenugreek Leaves

10 Exercises To Target Your Glutes

10 Dairy Alternative For Lactose Intolerant People

What if I told you that your mother's cells are forever in you and vice-versa? Science has now validated this phenomenon, offering comfort to many women who have experienced loss. This process is called microchimerism, a condition where cells that aren't originally yours exist within your body. Microchimerism most commonly occurs during pregnancy but can also result from organ transplants, blood donation, and certain medical conditions. The term itself is derived from the mythological chimera, a fire-breathing beast made of parts from three animals: a lion, a snake, and a goat. There are two main types of microchimerism: 1. Maternal Microchimerism: During pregnancy, cells pass between the mother and fetus through the placenta in a two-way exchange. Maternal cells enter the child’s body, while fetal cells enter the mother’s. These fetal cells can remain in the mother’s body for years—sometimes as long as 27 years after birth. Similarly, maternal cells may persist in the child’s body long after birth. 2. Fetal Microchimerism: This phenomenon is particularly poignant for women who have experienced miscarriage or child loss. Studies show that even after such events, fetal cells may continue to reside in the mother’s body, providing a lasting connection. Once the placenta implants in the uterus—generally early in pregnancy—the exchange of cells begins. These cells travel through the circulatory system and can lodge themselves in various parts of the body, including the lungs, heart, skin, and other tissues.Although most studies on microchimerism have been conducted on animals, they provide valuable insights. Researchers believe that fetal cells move throughout the mother’s body via the circulatory system. However, the exact destinations of these cells in humans remain uncertain. In one study, titled Male Microchimerism in the Human Female Brain, published in PLoS One, researchers explored how these cells may integrate into the mother’s body. This area of study continues to shed light on the fascinating ways in which mothers and their children remain biologically connected long after birth.