Describe the effects that maternal stress during pregnancy can have on the infant. What are the possible long-term consequences of maternal stress during pregnancy?

What will be an ideal response

The answer should explain that when the pregnant mother is stressed, the
overproduction of cortisol and other stress hormones in the mother can cross the
placenta and affect the developing fetus. Studies have shown that fetal heart rates
tend to be chronically elevated when the mother is chronically stressed. Research
indicates that exposure to high levels of stress hormones during gestation can affect
the behavior of the child even through adulthood. These children tend to be
hypervigilant, overemotional, or indifferent. They generally demonstrate poor coping
responses to stressors.