Touching Face or Head in the Womb Could Indicate Baby’s Healthy Development

A latest research on babies states that if a baby in the womb touches its face or head or sucks a thumb, these are indicators of healthy development.

The researchers at Durham and Lancaster universities scanned 15 fetuses that included eight girls and seven boys, during 24 and 36 weeks of gestation.

They observed that fetuses in their 24^th week touched the upper and side parts of their heads and those at 36 weeks touched their mouths.

The researchers said that this can be a sign to understand development of babies and their well-preparedness for feeding.

The scientists also stated that the findings could prove helpful in understanding premature babies and their preparedness to mingle in the society and calm themselves by sucking their thumbs or fingers.

"Increased touching of the lower part of the face and mouth in fetuses could be an indicator of brain development necessary for healthy development, including preparedness for social interaction, self-soothing and feeding," said Nadja Reissland, who works in the Department of Psychology at Durham University.

Published in the journal Developmental Psychobiology, the study reveals more information on the time of the baby's birth.

"What we have observed are sequential events, which show maturation in the development of fetuses, which is the basis for life after birth," she explained. "The findings could provide more information about when babies are ready to engage with their environment, especially if born prematurely."

"This effect is likely to be evolutionally determined, preparing the child for life outside the womb. Building on these findings, future research could lead to more understanding about how the child is prepared prenatally for life, including their ability to engage with their social environment, regulate stimulation and being ready to take a breast or bottle," Brian Francis, a professor of social statistics at Lancaster University said.