What it means
A feeding reflex that helps a newborn find the nipple or bottle. Stroking the cheek or the corner of the mouth makes the baby turn the head toward that side and open the mouth, ready to suck. It is present at birth and usually fades by about 3 to 4 months of age.
For the nurse
Teach parents to use it at feeding time: stroke the baby's cheek or lower lip with the nipple and wait for a wide-open mouth before bringing the baby to the breast.
Related terms
reflex
An automatic body response to something that stimulates it, which happens without thought, such as the knee jerk.
breastfeeding
Feeding a baby with milk directly from the breast.
Moro reflex
A newborn reflex in which a sudden noise or loss of support makes the baby fling the arms out and then bring them back in.
palmar grasp reflex
A newborn reflex in which the baby's fingers close tightly around an object placed in the palm.