Understanding newborn reflexes

*Newborns may be tiny, but their little bodies come equipped with a fascinating set of reflexes designed to help them survive and grow in their new environment. These reflexes, often referred to as primitive or infant reflexes, are automatic responses to certain stimuli and are an important part of your baby’s development.*

Newborn reflexes typically fade as the baby’s nervous system matures, but the timing varies depending on the reflex, but they usually last 3-7 months.

### **What are newborn reflexes?**

Reflexes in newborns are involuntary movements or actions triggered by specific stimuli. These responses are present from birth and typically fade as your baby’s nervous system matures, usually within the first few months of life. Monitoring these reflexes can provide valuable insight into your baby’s neurological health and development.

### **What are the most common newborn reflexes?**

- **Rooting Reflex:** When you gently stroke your baby’s cheek, they will turn their head and open their mouth. This reflex helps them locate the breast or bottle for feeding.

- **Sucking Reflex:** When something touches the roof of your baby’s mouth, they will instinctively begin to suck. This reflex is essential for feeding and is present from birth.

- **Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex):** If your baby is startled by a loud sound or sudden movement, they may throw their arms out, arch their back, and then pull their arms back in.

- **Palmar Grasp Reflex:** When you place your finger in your baby’s palm, they will grasp it tightly. This reflex is one of the most endearing and fades after a few months.

- **Tonic Neck Reflex:** Also called the "fencing" reflex, when your baby’s head turns to one side, the arm on that side will stretch out while the opposite arm bends.

- **Stepping Reflex:** If you hold your baby upright with their feet touching a surface, they may make stepping motions as if trying to walk.

### **Why are reflexes important?**

These reflexes are not only adorable but also essential for survival and development. For instance, rooting and sucking help ensure your baby can feed, while the Moro reflex helps alert them to potential danger.

### **When should you seek medical advice?**

If a reflex seems absent, overly exaggerated, or doesn’t fade within the expected time frame, speak to a doctor about this as it could be signs of an underlying issue that may require assessment.

Newborn reflexes are one of nature’s incredible ways of helping your baby transition to life outside the womb. Observing and understanding these reflexes can give you greater insight into your baby’s early development and milestones.