"Administering anesthesia directly to the fetus is also sometimes done but generally to reduce the release of potentially harmful fetal stress hormones (search), Rosen (Nazi scientist) said. There is little research on its effects, the authors said."
Well the release of fetal stress hormones, which is measurable, is a direct result of pain. Babies earlier than 20 weeks have been found to release these hormones when stuck with a needle in utero. It's observable and measurable. Now tell me why should anybody trust a scientist if the scientific community doesn't reject this meta study laced with bs?
Because science doesn't work through surface judgements, but from carefully examining the evidence and arguments. While some may immediately either hold this study up or put it down because of their personal beliefs, most scientists will treat it with the same skepticism and closer examination that they would any other paper making sweeping judgements.