Which neonatal reflex can help infants find the breast for feeding?

The rooting reflex is a crucial instinctive behavior in neonates that assists them in finding the breast for feeding. When an infant's cheek is stroked or touched, the rooting reflex prompts them to turn their head towards the stimulus and open their mouth in search of nourishment. This reflex is vital for breastfeeding, as it facilitates the infant's ability to locate and latch onto the nipple.

In contrast, the palmar reflex involves the grasping of objects placed in a baby's hand and is not directly related to feeding. The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, occurs when an infant feels a sensation of falling or hears a loud noise, leading them to extend their arms and legs and then quickly bring them back to the body – it does not assist with feeding. The asymmetric tonic neck reflex, which occurs when an infant turns their head to one side and extends the arm and leg on that side while flexing the opposite limbs, is primarily involved in developing coordination and does not play a role in breastfeeding.

Thus, the rooting reflex is specifically designed to support an infant's feeding behavior, highlighting its importance during the early stages of life.