7 interesting facts about babies born in winter, according to science

2. They have healthy foetal development

A 2008 study published in American Journal of Human Biology recorded increased birth weight, gestational age and longevity in babies born in autumn and winter. Researchers suggested that increased temperature at birth was associated with negative impact on foetal development and longevity.

3. They are prone to food allergies

After studying the association between the birth season and susceptibility to food allergies among children born between 2001-2006, Finnish scientists found that incidence of an allergic response to certain foods increased from five per cent in infants born in summer to 9.5 per cent in those born in autumn and winter.

4. They start crawling faster

Babies born in winter start crawling earlier than those in summer, revealed a 2014 study by the University of Haifa. The study showed that birth season influenced the child’s motor development during its first year.

5. Their moms are less likely to have postpartum depression

According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, mothers who give birth in winter are less likely to have postpartum depression. Researchers attribute this to mothers enjoying more indoor activities during the season due to unfavourable weather conditions outside.

Also Read| Can the winter season affect your child’s mental health?

6. They are born premature

In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Princeton researchers found a sharp spike in early deliveries during the months of January and February, indicating a 10 per cent higher rate of premature birth among infants born at the height of the flu season.

7.  They behave better

Queensland University researchers assessed behaviours of children, from consideration of others to fidgeting among four-five-year-olds, and found those born in winter to be better behaved as compared to their summer counterparts.