Findings from University of Valladolid Provide New Insights into Health and Medicine (Can We Influence the Neurological Development and Hair Cortisol Concentration of Offspring By Reducing the Stress of the Mother During Pregnancy? a Randomized...).

A study conducted at the University of Valladolid in Soria, Spain, explored the impact of stress management cognitive behavioral therapy during pregnancy on the neurological development and hair cortisol concentration of offspring. The study involved 48 pregnant women, with half receiving therapy and the other half receiving standard care. Results indicated that the therapy group showed reductions in psychological stress, stable cortisol concentrations, and their babies had lower cortisol levels at birth and higher cognitive and motor development scores at 6 months. The research suggests that providing psychological care to pregnant women may benefit both their mental health and the neurodevelopment of their children. [Extracted from the article]