Small differences in birth timing tied to test scores

Genevra Pittman:

Researchers have known that babies born premature are at risk for slowed brain development, but a new study suggests that even among those considered “normal term” – between 37 and 41 weeks – a couple of extra weeks in the womb might make a difference.
Kids born on the shorter end of that range scored lower on math and reading tests as eight-year-olds than those born later – but the differences were small and “shouldn’t be alarming,” one researcher who wasn’t part of the study team said.
“Certainly the vast majority of 37-weekers and 41-weekers would end up developing typically,” said Dr. Kimberly Noble, the lead author on the new study from Columbia University Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital in New York.
Still, she said, until more research is done, “We would urge caution to both parents and physicians when considering early elective delivery.”