Baby Gets Startled Easily. Why?
We all get startled now and then. But the startling reflex in infants is a bit different.
“The startling reflex, known to physicians as the Moro reflex, is usually caused when your baby’s head changes position or falls back abruptly, or when she hears a loud or unusual noise,” explains Rallie McAllister, MD, MPH, a family physician and coauthor of The Mommy MD Guide to Your Baby’s First Year. “When babies exhibit the startling reflex, they typically react by throwing out their arms and legs and extending their necks, and then rapidly bringing their arms back together. Often they cry at the same time or shortly afterward.” It’s all part of being a baby, and you don’t really need to do anything about it.
McAllister says the Moro reflex has usually run its course by the time baby is two months old. Of course, everyone gets startled by things, no matter their age. If you think he’s exhibiting a true Moro reflex and he’s older than three months, check it out with the pediatrician. You might just have a more sensitive baby.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
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