Pre- and perinatal psychology

Pre- and perinatal psychology is the study of how a baby develops and grows before and after they are born. It explores how things like the mother's health, environment, and behavior can affect the baby's development.

Before a baby is born, they are growing inside their mother's womb. This is called the prenatal period. During this time, the baby develops organs, muscles, and bones, and starts to grow hair and nails. If the mother eats healthy foods, exercises, and avoids things that are harmful to the baby, like smoking and alcohol, it can help the baby develop properly.

After a baby is born, the perinatal period begins. This is the time from birth until the baby is a few weeks old. During this time, the mother and baby bond and learn to communicate with each other. This bonding period is very important for the baby's emotional development.

Pre- and perinatal psychology also explores how traumatic events, like abuse or neglect, during pregnancy and infancy can affect a child's development later in life. It looks at how stress, anxiety, and depression in the mother can impact the baby's growth and development.

Overall, pre- and perinatal psychology helps us understand the factors that play a role in a baby's development before and after they are born.