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VOLUME 15 , ISSUE 2 ( April-June, 2021 ) > List of Articles

REVIEW ARTICLE

Fetal Awareness

Milan Stanojevic, Aida Salihagic Kadic

Citation Information : Stanojevic M, Kadic AS. Fetal Awareness. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2021; 15 (2):188-194.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10009-1700

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 02-07-2021

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2021; The Author(s).


Abstract

Background: While studying fetal behavior using four-dimensional ultrasound (4D US), we have been speculating about the fetal awareness and fetal cognitive function, trying to become familiarized with fetal emotional life and its readiness to separate from the intrauterine environment and begin independent life as a new individual. Aim and objective: The aim and objective to see whether by observing the fetus by 4D US we are able to enter fetal behavior, emotions, mental status, consciousness, awareness, and other states connected with fetal mind and ability of self-regulation. Results: After 24–26 weeks, the fetus has the necessary connections to sense pain. Somatosensory evoked potentials can be registered from the cortex at 29 weeks, and they may provide evidence of pain processing in the somatosensory cortex. According to recent findings, the cortical pain response has been recorded by near-infrared spectroscopy from about 25 weeks. Fetal facial expressions like those of children sustaining pain have been noticed by 4D US. The fetus can alter the frequency, patterning, and coordination of movement in response to sensory challenges, while retention of information from motor experience and motor learning may contribute to normal prenatal motor development. Conclusion: We have learned from the research by 4D US that the fetus is capable of action planning and learning, meaning that probably the capability of being aware and conscious should proceed. Fetal life in utero is dramatic and rich in different experiences, which probably would not be possible without development of fetal awareness and consciousness.

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