Your newborn is home after maternity and everyday you’re seeing up close how they interact and connect with the world around them. As part of this fascinating uncovering, you might also witness some movements that make you wonder if your baby is truly OK.
Moro reflex could be a part of that bunch, so let’s figure out what it means and what it shows about the baby’s development.
What is the Moro Reflex?
It’s a physical reaction that results from a sudden or unexpected stimulus. As a response, they make body movements as if they’re trying to get their balance back.
A basic description of the Moro reflex is that their arms might spread out away from the body and the baby extends their legs. Then, the arms come back to the center of the body, and their hands might open and close, as if they’re trying to grab something. Lastly, some babies may cry after it’s passed.
How long does Moro reflex last?
You don’t have to take any action to get rid of the Moro reflex: it will happen naturally as your Little One becomes able to support their own neck.
Usually, it fades between 3 to 6 months after birth.
Why is the Moro Reflex Important?
Although the Moro reflex might cause your baby to feel startled, and even cry, there’s no need to try to “protect” them from it. The occurrence of Moro reflex means the baby’s nervous system is well and developing properly.
In fact, the Moro reflex test is common during the first visits to your baby’s pediatrician. The testing presents no harm for your newborn and it’s done quickly.
If a newborn doesn’t present a quick and developed Moro reflex, it might be an indication of more significant conditions. Once again, having frequent attendance in your pediatrician’s office, especially during the first months, can make a substantial difference.
Testing Moro reflex
Usually, the physician will place the baby on their back on a soft paddle. Next, the pediatrician gently lifts the infant’s head and shoulders off the surface, supporting them.
Then, the doctor releases the head suddenly, allowing it to drop slightly before catching it again.
The expected response is the baby throwing out their arms, extending their legs, and then bringing their arms back toward their body, often accompanied by crying.
How to Comfort Your Baby During a Moro Reflex Response
The whole process of Moro reflex is quick and goes away rapidly. Some babies might cry after finding their ground, but others can even calm themselves down!
If you notice your baby experiencing the Moro reflex, don’t worry about taking any action. You can simply soothe and comfort them after you notice it’s done, and hush away any startled feelings your Little One might demonstrate.
Be confident that the agitation won’t last for long, and that some good n old Mommy’s embraces are more than enough to calm them down!
We hope that you’re now more prepared to handle Moro reflex as your baby experiences it. Give them the support they might need after the episode, make sure you’re on track with the pediatrician consultations, and continue your journey on becoming the best parent you can be!
Next, we invite you to check out more ways to take care of your Little One as they develop: here’s what you need to know on how to burp a newborn!
