Aspects of fetal learning and memory.
Ninety-three pregnant women were recruited to assess fetal learning and memory, based on habituation to repeated vibroacoustic stimulation of fetuses of 30-38 weeks gestational age (GA). Each habituation test was repeated 10 min later to estimate the fetal short-term memory. For Groups 30-36, both measurements were replicated in a second session at 38 weeks GA for the assessment of fetal long-term memory. Within the time frame considered, fetal learning appeared GA independent. Furthermore, fetuses were observed to have a short-term (10-min) memory from at least 30 weeks GA onward, which also appeared independent of fetal age. In addition, results indicated that 34-week-old fetuses are able to store information and retrieve it 4 weeks later.
Dirix
Chantal E H
CE
Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht 6202 AZ, The Netherlands.
Nijhuis
Jan G
JG
Jongsma
Henk W
HW
Hornstra
Gerard
G
D000162:Acoustics; D005260:Female; D047109:Fetal Development; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008568:Memory; D011939:Mental Recall; D011247:Pregnancy; D013997:Time Factors; D014732:Vibration