High levels of maternal stress are harmful to the fetus because

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When a mother experiences stress, her body produces stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can divert blood flow away from the fetus, potentially causing developmental problems. Additionally, stress weakens the mother's immune system, which can result in illness that can also harm the developing fetus. Maternal stress is not known to result in postpartum depression, nor is it likely to affect a mother's ability to love her infant. Stress is also not likely to harm the mother's liver.

High Levels of Maternal Stress Are Harmful to the Fetus