The Moro reflex I was worried about finally calmed down after 2 months!
Hello, I'm a new dad in my 40s. Parenting for the first time is a series of surprises and moving moments every day. This time, I'd like to write about one of the things that worried me the most during the newborn period: the "Moro reflex".
When my child was just born, I was really worried to see them suddenly spread their arms wide and start crying at the slightest noise or when changing their body position. I remember thoughts crossing my mind like, "Could something be wrong?" or "What if it doesn't go away?" I was especially startled myself when I saw them suddenly jerk while falling asleep or when they were fast asleep.
However, after listening to public health nurses and experienced moms and dads, and reading parenting books, I learned that the Moro reflex is a completely natural physiological phenomenon for newborns. It's an instinctive reaction for a baby to try to protect themselves when they feel danger, and it's something that naturally disappears as they grow. Even though I understood that in my head, honestly, I couldn't help but worry when I saw my child desperately repeating the Moro reflex right in front of me.
Those worrying days continued, but after my baby passed the 2-month mark, the Moro reflex decreased surprisingly. Even though they used to jerk at the slightest stimulation, now it's rarely seen unless there's a very loud noise or sudden movement.
Of course, sometimes I think, "Oh, was that the Moro reflex?" but it's nothing compared to the intensity of the newborn period. Since the Moro reflex has calmed down, I feel like they fall asleep better, and my wife and I are relieved.
To summarize what I've researched and experienced regarding the Moro reflex...
When does it appear?: It is one of the primitive reflexes of the newborn period that can be seen from birth.
What kind of reaction is it?: Due to sudden sounds, light, or changes in body position, the baby spreads both arms, extends their fingers, and then makes a movement as if hugging themselves. At the same time, their legs may extend and open, or they may start crying.
When does it go away?: Although there are individual differences, it is generally said that it naturally disappears by around 3 to 4 months of age. In my child's case, it visibly decreased after about 2 months.
What are the worrying cases?: If the Moro reflex remains strong even after 4 months of age, or if it does not appear symmetrically, we recommend consulting a specialist.
The newborn period is full of firsts, and it's common to feel anxious about every little thing, wondering, "Is this okay?" But through this experience with the Moro reflex, I felt once again that it is a growth process that many babies go through.
If there are any new dads or moms out there who are worried about the Moro reflex just like I was, it's okay! It will surely calm down as they grow. Please take your time and watch over your baby's growth.
I would like to continue writing about these hectic but irreplaceable days of parenting.
When did your baby's Moro reflex calm down? If you have any episodes, please let me know!