Intrauterine birth position predicts newborn supine head position preference.

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
George F. Michel, Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: Intrauterine orientation of the fetus before delivery, as judged from head position during birth, was found to be a reliable precursor of the supine head position preference of the neonate. The neonate's head position affected the finger positions of the hands. When the head was oriented right, the right hand was fisted more often than the left and the left hand was open more often than the right. The reverse pattern occurred when the head was oriented left. The neonates did not manifest head position preferences while prone, but the prone position did alter the state of the infant. The neonate's state was also found to be associated with supine head orientation. The results were discussed in relation to the ontogeny of handedness.

Additional Information

Publication
Infant Behavior & Development. 1979; 2:29-38
Language: English
Date: 1979
Keywords
Intrauterine birth position, Supine head position preferences

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