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In this episode of theAll Things Sensory Podcast, we explore how a baby’s sensory and nervous systems begin developing long before birth — and how expectant parents can actively support this critical growth during pregnancy.
From taste and touch to vestibular and proprioceptive systems, you'll learn when each sensory system starts forming in the womb and what factors influence healthy development. We also highlight practical, evidence-based strategies for optimizing your baby’s neurological health through nutrition, movement, stress management, and mindful prenatal care.
Plus, we dive into fascinating research connecting prenatal experiences — like maternal stress, illnesses, medications, and even birth methods — to the likelihood of sensory processing difficulties later in childhood.
Whether you’re expecting or supporting someone who is, this episode empowers you with tools and insights to lay a strong sensory foundation for your baby’s future.
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form ->https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
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Research:The Prenatal and Perinatal Risk Variables of the Sensory Processing Disorder
Pregnancy is a time of incredible growth, not just for the baby but also for the parents. Understanding how a baby’s sensory and nervous systems develop in utero can empower families to give their little ones the best start possible.
In this article, we’ll explore how the sensory system begins to form before birth, what factors can influence this development, and how parents can support it.
Many people think sensory development begins after birth—but it actually starts in utero! Here's a breakdown of when each sensory system begins developing:
Starts as early as 8 weeks gestation.
By 13–15 weeks, the fetus can detect flavors in the amniotic fluid.
The olfactory (smell) system starts forming around the same time.
Begins around 18 weeks, with responses to external sounds by 24 weeks.
The auditory system continues to mature into the third trimester.
One of the first senses to develop, as early as 8 weeks.
By 12 weeks, most of the body is sensitive to touch.
Pain perception develops around 32 weeks.
Eyes start forming early in pregnancy.
By 20 weeks, babies can perceive light and dark.
By 28 weeks, they can open their eyes and detect changes in brightness.
Develops in the second trimester.
This system helps the baby process motion and is activated by the mother's movements.
Proprioceptors begin forming around 9 weeks.
As the baby moves more in the second trimester, this system becomes increasingly active.
Several internal and external factors can influence how a baby’s sensory and nervous system develops.
Smoking, alcohol, and drug use.
Trauma or stress during pregnancy.
Toxic exposure (e.g., chemicals, pollution).
Poor maternal nutrition.
Bed rest or lack of maternal movement can limit fetal vestibular stimulation.
High maternal stress levels may increase the child’s risk of sensory processing difficulties and retained primitive reflexes.
Genetics also play a role—sensory preferences often run in families.
Clinical note: Some preliminary studies suggest a connection between maternal stress, C-section deliveries, and a higher incidence of sensory processing disorder or retained reflexes in children.
Supporting your baby’s development doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, intentional choices can make a big difference.
Choose a high-quality prenatal with methylated folate (not folic acid), choline, and omega-3s.
Supplement with magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2 as needed.
Work with a functional medicine provider if possible.
Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and light resistance training can stimulate fetal sensory systems.
Movement provides vestibular input to your baby.
Avoid prolonged sitting or reclining when possible.
Try mindfulness, meditation, therapy, or simple outdoor walks.
Chronic stress can impact fetal brain development and sensory integration.
Consider limiting screen time and social media if it increases anxiety.
Use pregnancy pillows and other supports to sleep comfortably.
Address mouth breathing or snoring—these may indicate underlying airway concerns.
This includes tobacco, alcohol, non-approved medications, and environmental toxins like BPA, formaldehyde, and artificial dyes.
Consistent monitoring (including blood pressure and urine checks) helps detect early warning signs like preeclampsia.
Advocate for comprehensive care that aligns with both conventional and holistic approaches.
We want to acknowledge that not every pregnancy is straightforward. Whether you’re on bedrest, experience a high-stress event, or need a C-section—it’s not your fault.
What matters most is understanding the potential impacts and taking proactive steps moving forward.
“Know better, do better.”
Here are a few highlights from studies that link prenatal experiences to later sensory development:
A study on families pregnant during a major New Zealand earthquake found higher instances of sensory seeking behaviors and retained primitive reflexes in children due to elevated maternal stress hormones.
A 2020 review suggested that C-sections may increase the likelihood of proprioceptive disorders, especially in boys.
Another study found 84% of preterm babies and 80% of C-section babies showed signs of sensory processing disorder.
These studies are small but important. They highlight areas for further research and where proactive, informed care can make a difference.
Pregnancy is full of decisions, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But the fact that you’re reading this—and learning how to support your baby’s sensory system—is proof that you care deeply.
Quick Takeaways:
Move daily (even if just walking).
Eat well and supplement mindfully.
Sleep, hydrate, and reduce stress when possible.
Talk with your provider about concerns or questions.
Remember: You’re doing your best. That’s enough.
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.
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