|
Page 1 of 4
Foetal reflexes
I test for 21 foetal reflexes that initiate and should inhibit while still in the womb. They are mostly unnamed, but include the Upper Spinal, Lateral and Foetal Startle (or Fear Paralysis Reflex). I believe the problems start earlier than with retained primitive reflexes and that it is crucial that foetal reflexes inhibit to allow normal development.
 Upper Spinal Reflex
Emerges 12 weeks in utero
Inhibits 18-24 weeks in utero
Stimulus and response Stimulation to the spine from the neck to the bottom of the ribcage causes sudden movement and arching of back
Function For the growing foetus to flex in utero
Effect when retained
At the root of many disorders and emotional problems. Hypersensitivity at back of neck; over-responsiveness to touch; emotional hypersensitivity leading to deep emotional issues.
Potential symptoms
- Rejection of hugs and any unexpected touch
- Tactile defensiveness
- Irritation at back of neck, especially by clothing labels and harsh fabrics
- Emotional hypersensitivity
- Insecurity, low self-esteem
- Discomfort over hair or nails being cut
- May avoid walking barefoot on grass or sand
- Oversensitivity to sun on skin
Foetal Startle (FS), aka Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR)
Emerges 5-7 weeks in utero
Inhibits 18 weeks in utero
Stimulus and response Sudden sensory stimulation results in immediate motor paralysis, reduction in muscle tone, reduced reaction to external stimuli, restriction of peripheral circulation, lowered heart rate.
Function To make the foetus freeze/shut down - so that if mother is in fight/flight situation, the foetus doesn't make any demands on her system, nor does it take in her rush of adrenaline. It is transformed into the Moro reflex.
Effect when retained
A key reflex that, if retained, locks your system in a state of fear that impacts your whole life. If the FS is still present, then so is the Moro, because the Moro is necessary to arouse you from the paralysis state of the FS. It can be hugely confusing having both conflicting reflexes still active, and may result in a tendency to appear controlled and calm under stress, although there is an emotional maelstrom under the surface.
Potential symptoms
• Inability to make decisions when in shock or under stressFeeling ‘weak at the knees' or frozen ‘rabbit in the headlights' when frightened or stressed
• Slow response in shock situation
• Low tolerance to stress
• General sense of anxiety
• Hypersensitivity to touch, sound, changes in visual field
• Dislike of change or surprise, poor adaptability
• Reluctance to try new activities, especially in competitive environment
• Shyness
• Fear of new situations, unfamiliar people, social embarrassment, school. May become socially isolated and withdrawn
• Elective mutism - unable to speak in certain stressful situations, although able to speak normally (system is so overwhelmed that the vocal chords become temporarily paralysed)
• Holding breath
• Insecurity; lack of self-belief/trust
• Either overly clingy, or unable to accept or give affection easily
• Craves attention
• Compulsive traits/obsessive compulsive disorder
• Negativity, defeatist attitude
• Depression
• Temper tantrums
• Controlling or defiant behaviour, especially at home
• Eating disorders
• Avoids confrontation
• Eager to pacify or please (even if contra to own self-interest)
• Night terrors/nightmares
Reflexes - Primitive Reflexes - Infant Reflexes - Postural Reflexes
|
The Reflexes 