By what age should the Moro reflex be completely gone?

The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is a primitive reflex that is present in newborns. It typically involves a sudden extension of the arms and legs, followed by a retraction of the limbs when the baby feels a sensation of falling or hears a loud noise. This reflex is a sign of neurological development.

The Moro reflex typically disappears by about 4 months of age. By this time, the baby's nervous system has commonly matured enough to allow for more controlled responses to stimuli. While some infants may retain this reflex until slightly beyond four months, it is generally expected to be completely absent by that time.

Understanding the timeline of the Moro reflex is crucial for tracking an infant's neurological development and ensuring that they are achieving appropriate developmental milestones. If the reflex persists beyond 4 months, it may indicate potential developmental concerns that should be evaluated further.