The mediating effect of social support on the relationship between negative feelings about pregnancy and child developmental delays: A nationwide birth cohort – the Japan Environment and Children’s Study

Unintended pregnancies can cause stress, adversely affecting maternal and child health. This study examined the impact of negative feelings about pregnancy on child developmental delays and the mediating role of social support. Data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, involving 73,518 mother–infant pairs, were analyzed. Feelings about pregnancy were assessed during the first trimester, while developmental delays were evaluated at 3 years using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and social support was measured at 2.5 years postpartum. Logistic regression analysis revealed that feelings other than “very happy” were associated with higher risks of developmental delays. Mothers reporting “no specific feelings” had the strongest association (adjusted odds ratio: 1.68; 95% confidence interval: 1.41–2.00). Social support significantly reduced delays, particularly for mothers reporting “other feelings” (45.0%; 95% confidence interval: 41.0–48.3). These findings underscore the importance of social support in mitigating developmental risks linked to negative pregnancy emotions.