Good parenting overcomes prenatal stress
Forming a strong bond can help children's development
Good parenting in a child's early months may help overcome problems caused by prenatal stress, it has been claimed.
Research conducted at the University of Rochester and detailed in the journal Biological Psychiatry revealed that while fetuses who are exposed to high levels of the stress hormone cortisol can suffer from poor cognitive development, this can be counteracted if mothers nurture their children during their early years.
Issues such as trouble paying attention or solving problems are a common effect of being exposed to elevated stress levels, however the researchers claim this negative link could disappear altogether if mothers forge a strong connection with their child.
"This is such refreshing news for mothers," study author Thomas O'Connor, professor of psychiatry and of psychology, said.
"Pregnancy is an emotional experience for many women, and there is already so much for mothers to be careful of and concerned about. It's a relief to learn that, by being good parents, they might 'buffer' their babies against potential setbacks."
He added that the study may have a number of implications for the future and highlighted that the researchers will be following up with the children tested at the age of six to establish the long-term effects of sensitive parenting.
A recent study conducted at Stanford University highlighted that acupuncture helps treat depression in pregnant women.
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