Neonatal startle reflex

We all know that newborns are very timid when they are just born, so they are likely to be frightened by some stimulating sounds from the outside world. At this time, they will behave very terrified, so mothers should comfort their babies appropriately, especially when they are sleeping, and try to create a good living environment for their babies, because being awakened from sleep is the easiest to leave sequelae. So what is the newborn's startle reflex like?

What is the startle reflex?

The startle reflex is a very important innate initial reflex in infancy, which helps infants defend against external attacks. The typical manifestation of the startle reflex during sleep - waking up, can prevent life-threatening attacks during sleep.

The startle reflex will have different degrees of effect on different babies. The peak period of the effect will be in the first month after the baby is born, and then gradually decline after 2 months.

If the initial reflex has not subsided well by the time the baby is 4 months old, it will have a profound impact on the baby's future sleep, exercise, mood, habit, etc. In this case it is best to consult a doctor.

What effects does the startle reflex have on babies?

When babies are stimulated by sudden light, sound or shaking, in addition to sudden severe tremors in their limbs, they are also prone to sudden crying.

If the baby is sleeping, it is easier to wake up. If the method of coaxing and keeping him asleep is not appropriate, it will further affect the sleep quality of mother and baby.

Usually the most likely cause of sleep disturbance in infants before 4 months of age is the startle reflex.

1. The startle reflex can cause the baby to be emotionally unstable

Babies whose startle reflex is more affected may cry frequently, and if their mood swings are more unstable, it may make their caregivers feel more troubled.

2. Startle reflex can cause babies to cry

When we change our babies' diapers, we may inadvertently trigger their startle reflex and cause them to cry. We may think that the baby does not like lying down, lying prone, turning over or changing diapers, etc., which may cause the baby to lose many exercise opportunities.

This will not only affect the baby's gross motor development, but also prevent the suppression and decline of the startle reflex, and at the same time affect the baby's sensory development.

3. The startle reflex will affect the baby's habituation to the new environment

Babies will be very sensitive, restless, and cry in a new environment.

What should I do if my baby is often awakened by himself?

You might try swaddling your baby. The key is to wrap the arms well so that the baby will feel more secure. Putting your baby in a sleeping bag that wraps around the arms can have the same effect.

But if the surrounding environment is too hot, don't do it.

In addition, take your baby out more often to bask in the sun and breathe fresh air, give your baby more regular massages, and let your baby practice lying prone, which can also help the baby's motor development and the decline of the startle reflex.

There is no need to deliberately create a particularly quiet and dark environment. Appropriate sounds can help the baby's vision and hearing development and the decline of the startle reflex. There is no need to keep the curtains closed all day, be afraid to speak loudly, or even stay at home for the sake of your baby. These are harmful to the baby.

If the startle reflex persists after four or five months, it is best to consult a doctor. You can take a video of your baby's recent startle reflex and show it to the doctor.

Is it normal to have no startle reflex?

Some initial reflexes are used as key examination targets to check whether the baby's nervous system development is normal. If the baby has never had a startle reflex before 4 months old, he should go to a professional hospital for examination in time.

It is worth noting that in an overly quiet or dim environment, the startle reflex may not have a chance to occur, affecting the doctor's judgment. The startle reflex that often occurs 3 to 4 months ago is a sign of its decline or suppression.