Antenatal Stress and the Baby's Development

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Abstract
A prospective study of Indian expectant mothers in Durban revealed a relationship between emotional stress during pregnancy and a low level of motor development in the infant. This association, which applied to babies weighing 8 lb. 0 oz. or less at birth, appeared to be independent of other factors associated with emotional stress. By 3 months of age this relationship was no longer apparent, as the tempo of motor development after birth appeared to be largely dependent on extra-uterine conditions. The possible significance of these findings is discussed. It is suggested that motor retardation may form part of a continuum of reproductive casualty, and that in some cases emotional stress during pregnancy may have more far-reaching effects on the baby.