Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Saboory et al. found that prenatal psychosocial stress can cause delays in child growth and development through assessing the child's weight, height and head circumference every two months after they were born. [6] They also assessed the child's cognitive development through the use of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). [6]
Intrauterine exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds have been associated with subtle developmental changes on the fetus. Effects on the child later in life include changes in liver function, thyroid hormone levels, white blood cell levels, and decreased performance in tests of learning and intelligence. [21]
Because of a link in blood supply between a mother and fetus, it has been found that stress can leave lasting effects on a developing fetus, even before a child is born. According to recent studies, these effects are mainly the result of two particular stress biomarkers circulating in the maternal blood supply: cortisol and catecholamines.
The stress that the mother experiences affects the fetus and the fetus' growth which can include the fetus' nervous system (Reilly, 2017). Stress can also lead to low birth weight. Even after avoiding other factors like alcohol, drugs, and being healthy, stress can have its impacts whether families know it or not.
Additionally, maternal stress can affect the fetus both directly and indirectly. When a mother is under stress, physiological changes occur in the body that could harm the developing fetus. Additionally, the mother is more likely to engage in behaviors that could negatively affect the fetus, such as tobacco smoking, substance use, and alcohol use.
Recent projects of interest include studies showing that maternal prenatal stress, depression or anxiety increases the probability for a range of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes for the child. These include emotional problems, attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, and cognitive impairment. [ 1 ]
Early childhood is a critical period in a child's life that includes ages from birth to five years old. [1] [2] Psychological stress is an inevitable part of life. Human beings can experience stress from an early age. Although stress is a factor for the average human being, it can be a positive or negative molding aspect in a young child's life ...
The Secret Life of the Unborn Child, Dell 1982 reprint: ISBN 0-440-50565-8, see also the professional organization founded by Verny to train professionals, the Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health, APPPAH, at www.birthpsychology.com.