When a child is born, especially through natural vaginal delivery,  a wide range of primary (primitive) reflexes and neural programs are activated within the nervous system. These reflexes are built-in mechanisms that help the child survive, adapt, and develop after birth.

The process of birth itself is a powerful source of physical and sensory stimulation. It acts as a “trigger” for activating primitive reflexes. As the baby moves through the birth canal, pressure on the skull, spine, and body sends a large amount of proprioceptive and vestibular input (sensations of movement and body position) to the brain. This activates reflexes that help the baby begin breathing, seek the breast, regulate body temperature — in other words, support survival.

Below are several key reflexes often discussed by specialists:

Moro Reflex (“startle reflex”)
This reflex is triggered by sudden changes such as loud sounds, abrupt movements, or the sensation of falling. During birth, changes in pressure, light, and sound activate the Moro reflex. It plays a crucial role in initiating the first breath, expanding the lungs and oxygenating the brain. If the Moro reflex is not properly activated (for example, in cesarean section births), it may remain retained and later present as hypersensitivity, anxiety, and difficulties with stress regulation.

Spinal Galant Reflex
This reflex helps the baby move through the birth canal. It is activated by light stimulation along the sides of the spine (approximately 1 cm from the spinal column). During natural birth, rotational movements and pressure stimulate this reflex. It is important for hip movement, crawling, and later walking. If not properly integrated, it may be associated with issues such as enuresis, poor posture, or hyperactivity.

Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)
This reflex represents the body’s response to the position of the head relative to gravity. During birth, the vestibular system receives strong stimulation, activating the TLR. If integration is incomplete, it may lead to difficulties with balance, coordination, and fear of movement. Children with retained TLR often dislike tummy time.

Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)
Often called the “fencing posture,” this reflex occurs when turning the head causes one arm and leg to extend while the opposite side flexes. Rotational movements during birth activate this reflex. It is essential for eye–hand coordination and crossing the midline. If integration is delayed, it may lead to difficulties with writing, reading, and sports.

Why the birth process is so important for brain development:

Birth activates the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, and autonomic nervous systems. This creates the foundation for self-regulation, motor development, and emotional stability.

When birth is highly medicalized (cesarean section, forceps, vacuum extraction) or traumatic (very fast, very prolonged, cord complications, induced labor), the child may require additional neurodevelopmental support.

Children born via C-section, vacuum, or forceps may not receive the necessary mechanical stimulation that occurs during passage through the birth canal. As a result, many reflexes may be weakly activated or delayed.

These children often benefit from additional sensory and motor stimulation (such as movement therapy, sensory integration, osteopathy) to support proper nervous system development. Without this support, challenges may arise, including low muscle tone, delayed motor development, sensory hypersensitivity, and difficulties with emotional regulation. Over time, retained primitive reflexes can impact learning, behavior, and overall development.

The good news is that we can learn to recognize these challenges early and support children effectively.

How? I invite you to learn more in the course.