Otherwise, it is important to remember that the Moro reflex is a normal reaction in healthy babies and that it is not a cause for concern. The Moro reflex is especially strong in newborn babies as they adjust to the world outside the womb, but it usually does not bother them. Parents and caregivers can comfort a baby who cries or seems distressed when experiencing a Moro reflex by:. The term swaddling refers to different methods of wrapping newborn babies in a lightweight blanket.
Although swaddling is an age-old practice, it is a controversial topic among healthcare professionals, parents, and caregivers. The NIH recommend that swaddled babies should sleep on their backs. The NIH also recommend that parents and caregivers stop swaddling babies who can roll over on their own.
Infantile spasms, or West syndrome, refers to a type of seizure that occurs in babies with epilepsy. Infantile spasms share some of the same features as the Moro reflex. Infantile spasms can look different in different babies. Some babies will arch their back and extend their arms and legs, while others bend forward while their arms and legs stiffen. Parents or caregivers who are concerned about the movements that their baby is making should take them to see a pediatrician, who should be able to distinguish between the Moro reflex and infantile spasms relatively easily in a newborn.
Infantile spasms usually start within the first year of life, between 4 and 8 months. They typically resolve by the age of 5 years , although other seizures may take their place. Babies can have up to spasms per day. Doctors can treat infantile spasms with hormonal therapy or antiseizure medication. However, these treatments can cause serious side effects. Babies who develop infantile spasms due to a brain lesion may require surgery.
A loud noise or a sudden change of light can startle a baby. When this happens, they might respond by throwing their head back, extending their arms and legs, and then settling in a fetal position. People refer to this involuntary reaction as the Moro reflex.
Parents and caregivers may worry when they see the Moro reflex for the first time, but this is a normal reaction in healthy babies. The Moro reflex will diminish once a baby can support their head, which usually happens by the age of 4 months. Doctors usually test for the Moro reflex during postdelivery checkups. Parents and caregivers who suspect that their baby has an overactive or absent Moro reflex can contact their doctor. Some people use essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, to massage their baby or in a diffuser.
The grasp reflex lasts only a couple of months and is stronger in premature babies. Babinski reflex With the Babinski reflex, when the sole of the foot is firmly stroked, the big toe bends back toward the top of the foot and the other toes fan out. This is a normal reflex until the child is about 2 years old. Newborn babies not only have unique reflexes, but also have a number of physical characteristics and behaviors that include the following: head sags when lifted up, needs to be supported turns head from side to side when lying on his stomach eyes are sometimes uncoordinated, may look cross-eyed initially fixes eyes on a face or light then begins to follow a moving object beginning to lift head when lying on stomach jerky, erratic movements moves hands to mouth What can my baby say?
What does my baby understand? You may find that your baby responds in many ways, including the following: startles at loud noises looks at faces and pictures with contrasting black and white images gives attention to voices, may turn to a sound hints of a smile, especially during sleep How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security: Young babies need the security of a parent's arms, and they understand the reassurance and comfort of your voice, tone, and emotions.
Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your newborn: Hold your baby face to face. Talk in a soothing tone and let your baby hear your affectionate and friendly voice. Sing to your baby. Walk with your baby in a sling, carrier, or a stroller. Rock your baby in a rhythmic, gentle motion. Respond quickly to your baby's cries. Popular links under Pregnancy First Trimester. Popular links under Baby Baby Month by Month. Popular links under Toddler Toddler Month by Month.
Baby Products. Bookmark BookmarkTick BookmarkAdd save. Baby Gets Startled Easily. It seems like so many noises startle him. Why does this happen and when will it stop?
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