Birthing Briefs: Maternal Stress Can Affect Fetal Neurobehavioral Functioning

Abstract

We know that stress can eventually have a negative effect on physical well-being. Recently, researchers found maternal stress during pregnancy to be associated with a decrease in fetal heart rate variability (DiPietro, Hodgson, Costigan, Hilton & Johnson, 1996;Shupe, 1998). In addition, Shupe (1998) found chronic maternal stress to be associated with increased time between the onset of a fetal movement and the corresponding change in heart rate (latency). This is preliminary research, so we do not know exactly what it means in terms of outcome for the newborn. However, we are safe in telling women that chronic stress during pregnancy is not good for the fetus. Childbirth educators are in a position to assess women for chronic and pregnancy related stress. Referrals for counseling or ancillary services can get women the help they need to reduce the stress in their lives.