Evidence of long-term functional disorders after prenatal exposure to stress is
limited, but retrospective studies and two prospective studies support the possibility of such
effects. A comprehensive model of putative interrelationships between maternal, placental, and
fetal factors is presented. Conclusions: Apart from the well-known negative effects of
biomedical risks, maternal psychological factors may significantly contribute to pregnancy
complications and unfavourable development of the (unborn) child. These problems might be