[Ultrasonographic expressions of the fetal face may reflect fetal mood--mimicry is part of fetal ethology].
The author studied foetal faces and changes in features in the coronal plane during routine prenatal ultrasound scans. Based on known behaviour of children and adults, deductions can be made about foetal mood alterations. During the four years of the study the author noted five main facial expression changes that might be reflections of foetal mood. Foetal expressions and fine lineaments may indicate adequate maturity of the central nervous system as well as satisfactory oxygen supply. Ethologically, facial mimicry is an inherited behavioural pattern.
Jakobovits
Akos
A
Toldy Ferenc Kórház, Szülészeti es Nogyógyászati Osztály, Cegléd.
D000339:Affect; D005010:Ethology; D005149:Facial Expression; D005260:Female; D047109:Fetal Development; D005333:Fetus; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal