Press/Media: Research
A fetus develops a range of facial movements that permit identification of facial expressions, such as laughter and crying. The motor movement patterns develop before emotional awareness, similar to practicing breathing movements in utero before drawing a breath at birth.
Scientists have shown that recognizable facial expressions develop before birth with facial movements that become more complex as the pregnancy progresses from 24 to 36 weeks gestation.
Title | Fetal Facial Expressions Prepare for Behavior After Birth |
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Degree of recognition | International |
Media name/outlet | TS-SI NEWS SERVICE |
Duration/Length/Size | fairfax, virginia |
Date | 15/09/11 |
Persons | Brian Francis |