Can Stress Affect a Baby in the Womb? Expert Explains How a Mother’s Stress May Harm Her Baby

Can Stress Affect a Baby in the Womb?

Yes, stress can affect a baby in the womb. Dr Namrata Nagendra, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Electronic City, Bangalore, explains, “Many women suffer from stress during pregnancy, which can hurt the fetus's development. High levels of stress during pregnancy can cause high production of cortisol, a hormone that crosses the placental barrier and impacts the development of a child.”

Cortisol is often called the ‘stress hormone.’ When a pregnant woman is stressed, her body makes more cortisol. This hormone can cross from the mother’s blood into the baby’s blood through the placenta. Dr Nagendra adds, “High cortisol exposure in the womb can impact fetal brain development, resulting in long-term effects on a child's emotional regulation and cognitive functions.”

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How Common Is Stress During Pregnancy?

Stress and mental health problems are more common during pregnancy than many people think. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10% of pregnant women worldwide experience mental health disorders, mostly depression. In some developing countries, this number can be as high as 15.6%. These statistics show that many mothers face emotional challenges during pregnancy, and they are not alone.

What Can Happen to the Baby?

It has been observed that babies whose mothers experienced high stress during pregnancy may have the following:

• Higher sensitivity to stress later in life
• Increased risk of anxiety disorders
• Possible problems with emotional control
• Difficulties with learning and memory

The expert further explains, “Mostly, children born to mothers who experienced significant stress during pregnancy can have a sensitivity to stress and a predisposition to anxiety disorders in life.” This means that stress during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects, even after the baby is born.

Why Does This Happen?

When a mother is stressed, her body reacts by releasing stress hormones like cortisol. These hormones travel through the placenta and can affect the baby’s developing brain and body. The brain is especially sensitive during pregnancy, and high levels of cortisol can change how it grows. This can make the child more likely to feel anxious or have trouble handling stress as they grow up.

How Can Pregnant Women Manage Stress?

The good news is that there are many ways to manage stress during pregnancy. Dr. Nagendra recommends, “Pregnant women must take necessary measures to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques, physical activity, and regular medical checkups. Early consultation can be beneficial in the well-being of both the mother & her child.”

Here are some simple tips:

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga
• Take short walks or do light exercise, as approved by your doctor
• Talk to friends, family, or a counsellor about your worries
• Get enough sleep and eat healthy foods
• Go for regular prenatal checkups to monitor your health and your baby’s growth

Conclusion

Stress during pregnancy is common, but it is important to manage it for the health of both mother and baby. High stress can affect a baby’s brain and emotional development, but early action and support can make a big difference. If you are pregnant and feeling stressed, do not hesitate to seek help. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.