When we think about newborns, we imagine them as small, defenseless and calm creatures who are just beginning their journey in this world. However, as it turns out, already in the womb, they can show emotions, even crying.
Recent studies have shown that even before birth, fetuses can cry and show other emotions. This was observed anecdotally while studying the effects of maternal drug use and smoking on fetal development. During the study, scientists filmed facial expressions corresponding to the state of crying in 10 fetuses, starting from the 7th month of development. The facial reaction was caused by vibroacoustic influences to which the fruits were exposed and was recorded using ultrasound and video recording.
This discovery raised many questions among scientists and parents. How is it possible that fruits can cry? And what does this mean for their future development?
Neonatologists say this discovery supports the concept that fetuses can experience sensations and that emotional memory does exist from the 5th month of pregnancy. Previously, scientists have noted only four behavioral states in fetuses that can be compared with the behavior of newborns. But the state of crying was never documented.
The fact that even before birth the fetus develops sensitivity has been known for a long time. The fetus hears music, recognizes it after birth, reacts to external noises and to the noises of the mother’s body, for example, to the heartbeat. It is in balance and moves depending on the mother's movements. An American study notes a change in expression that can be described as dissatisfaction, anxiety. You can tell he's crying.
However, do not be alarmed and think that exposure to the fetus in the womb can harm them. The vibroacoustic effects to which the fruits were exposed in the study were short-term and did not cause harm.
Overall, this discovery gives us a new perspective on fetal development and shows how amazing this process is. Fetuses go through a lot before birth, and this opens up new opportunities for research and understanding of how we can help newborns and support their health and well-being.