Unexpectedly, we have observed that fetuses respond similarly to both induced maternal stress and relaxation. Maternal relaxation induced through a guided-imagery audiotape generated the expected reduction in maternal psychological and physiological tension. The fetal response included decreased heart rate and increased heart rate variability during the relaxation segment, but attributing these to the relaxation procedure itself could not be distinguished from simple maternal rest and changes in umbilical blood flow. However, as with both stress interventions, fetal motor activity was suppressed during the manipulation but recovered after the relaxation protocol concluded.