The Nature of Stress due to Terrorism on Pregnant Women and their Offspring

Current literature demonstrates that stress during pregnancy can have longterm effects on offspring. The purpose of this paper is to examine the possible stress reactions of pregnant
women exposed to terrorism. The main focus is on PTSD as the predominant reaction to terrorism and how it
affects pregnancy. Conclusions: Although specific research linking terrorism and stress in pregnancy has not
been studied/ published, the literature reviewed shows evidence that stress caused by terrorism is acute.
Women exposed directly or indirectly to terrorist attacks could be subjecting their offspring to a high level of
long-term risk. KEY WORDS: terrorism, PTSD, stresses due to terrorism, stress, pregnancy, fetal development.