Biology: what is the stimulus in the newborn reflex that prevents a baby from suffocating?
I am currently studying GCSE Biology and I am conducting research into SIDS [Sudden Infant Death Syndrome] otherwise known as ‘cot death’. Part of the module I am studying requires knowledge of the brain and mind; and I am stuggling to find an answer to this question. Thank you for your time.
Good question. In my opinion it could be one of two things: Moro (Startle) reflex or Sucking Reflex.
SUCKING REFLEX: When the roof of a babies mouth is touched, it will suck. According to some people, if you give a baby a dummy/pacifier it decreases the chances of cot death – this could be due to the fact that the baby is suckling, hence keeping it’s airways open and is thus less likely to suffocate.
MORO REFLEX: When a baby is startled by anything – sound or movement, it will throw it’s head back and arms out in fright. If you cover a baby’s mouth with anything it will try to swipe it away, plus if you put a baby face down it will try to lift it’s head – both of these are instinct to the newborn and will help prevent suffocation.
Hope this helped!