What Does an Embryo Feel? And What Conditions Are Necessary for the Perception of Pain?
The topic of pain perception in the embryo (the term used for an unborn child up to the end of the 8th week of pregnancy) and the foetus (from the 9th week onwards) is viewed from different research perspectives and remains a subject of debate.
It is well documented that the unborn child undergoes remarkable prenatal development – including first sensory impressions and learning experiences. For example, research has shown that unborn babies respond strongly to the mother’s voice and may already begin laying the foundations for learning their native language. Positive emotions and stress experienced by the mother can also affect the unborn child, which can be detected in the child’s hormone levels and heart rate.¹
Looking at the embryonic developmental phase: by the 5th/6th week of pregnancy, the embryo’s cardiovascular system develops and the nervous system begins to form. In the 7th/8th week, the brain develops. By day 40, both hemispheres of the brain can be detected, and by day 44, electrical brain activity is measurable. By the 8th week, the spinal cord is established, the first impulses are processed by the brain, and nerve pathways begin to connect.
Some researchers believe that pain perception does not occur until the 20th or 24th week of pregnancy, or even only after birth. According to Stuart Derbyshire, a mind and conscious awareness of pain would first be required. Reactions from embryos or foetuses are merely reflexes.² ³
Other medical professionals argue that, given the early development of the central nervous system, pain perception may occur relatively early. Prenatal psychology refers to studies observing foetal reactions during procedures such as punctures.⁴ The American Society of Anesthesiologists and the North American Fetal Therapy Network recommend that unborn children receive pain-relieving medication during invasive procedures in the womb.⁵
Ultimately, we do not know for certain how or what children feel in the womb. Different disciplines contribute to the assessment and ongoing research.
- 🧡 If this question touches you personally and you are currently considering a possible abortion, it is advisable to carefully reflect on all your thoughts and feelings. You deserve to follow what moves you and is important to you.
- ℹ️ More information: How to make a good decision
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