The findings linking stress and issues such as pre-term birth and lower birth rates do not surprise me. After reading about teratogens in the textbook this week, stress is a common teratogen in mothers. Stress will release the stress hormone, cortisol. The placentas is able to filter this hormone out but an over production of the hormone can lead to pre-term birth and low birth weights. Some of the most common stresses women experience is abuse and disadvantage backgrounds.

Based on the information in the article, providing cognitive behavioral therapy to the women can help them manage stress. This process should start before conception. Any woman is their child bearing years should have access to these treatments. This will not only help the mother and baby during pregnancy but can also help provide a healthier environment for the child after birth.