• 1 month ago

Newborn Reflexes and Growth Checkups

What Are Newborn Reflexes?

Newborn reflexes are automatic movements that indicate proper function and communication between a baby’s brain and spinal cord. Present from birth, these primitive reflexes are essential for survival, feeding, and early development. They act as neurological signposts, providing insights into your baby’s health in the very first days of life.

Examples include the sucking reflex, which helps with feeding, and the Moro reflex, a startle response to sudden movement or sound. These reflexes appear and disappear at predictable times. Their timing, symmetry, and intensity are all meaningful indicators of healthy brain and motor development.

Why Is Developmental Monitoring Important?

Developmental check-ups ensure that your baby is progressing appropriately in all domains: physical, neurological, sensory, and social. In the newborn stage, assessments focus on reflexes, muscle tone, and early interactive behavior.

Timely appearance and fading of reflexes reflect the maturity of the nervous system. On the other hand, absent, weak, asymmetric, or persistent reflexes may suggest developmental delays or neurological conditions. That’s why routine monitoring plays a vital role in early detection and intervention.

Key Reflexes Evaluated in Newborns

Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex)

Triggered by sudden movements or loud sounds, the baby flings arms outward then pulls them inward as if to embrace. Should be present from birth and disappear around 4 months.

Sucking and Rooting Reflexes

When the cheek or mouth is touched, the baby turns and makes sucking motions. These reflexes support feeding and generally fade by 3 months.

Palmar Grasp Reflex

Touching the baby’s palm causes the fingers to close tightly. Typically disappears by 5 months as voluntary grasp develops.

Stepping Reflex

When held upright with feet touching a surface, the baby makes stepping motions. This reflex usually fades by 2 months.

Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)

When the baby’s head turns to one side, the arm on that side stretches out while the opposite arm bends. Often called the “fencer’s pose,” it should vanish by 5 months.

Babinski Reflex

Stroking the sole causes toes to fan upward. This is normal until about 12 months and then disappears.

What’s Included in the Developmental Check-Up?

Muscle Tone and Posture

Your pediatrician assesses whether the baby is floppy, overly stiff, or favoring one side. Symmetry in movements and body position are key indicators of neuromotor function.

Eye Contact and Visual Tracking

Does the baby make eye contact, follow faces or objects, and respond to bright lights? These behaviors show both visual and social development.

Response to Sound

Startling at loud noises, turning toward familiar voices, and reacting to music or conversation all reflect early auditory and cognitive development.

Transition to Voluntary Movement

A key goal in early development is the gradual replacement of reflexes with purposeful, controlled movements. The timeline of this transition is closely tracked during check-ups.

Signs That May Indicate Concern

  • Reflexes are only present on one side
  • Moro reflex persists beyond 6 months
  • Muscle tone is abnormally low or high
  • Baby is unusually quiet and uninterested in surroundings
  • No head control after 3 months
  • Lack of eye contact or response to sound

If any of these are observed, your pediatrician may recommend a detailed neurological evaluation or developmental therapy. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes in cases of developmental delays.

Support and Education for Parents

During each appointment, Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu provides parents with:

  • A clear explanation of which milestones have been reached
  • What each reflex means and when it should fade
  • Tips for tracking developmental progress at home
  • Suggestions for age-appropriate sensory play and bonding activities
  • Honest, supportive feedback and early referral if needed

You’ll leave each visit feeling informed, empowered, and confident in your baby’s progress.

Why Choose Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu?

  • In-depth experience with newborn reflex evaluation and neurodevelopmental tracking
  • Skilled at identifying subtle abnormalities in movement, tone, and behavior
  • Focus on communication quality—not just presence—of reflexes
  • Personalized care plans for follow-up, therapy, or referrals if needed
  • Warm, supportive approach that values parent education