Human touch has a powerful effect on our lives.
Throughout life, humans use touch to interact with
others, display affection, seek support, and develop
relationships. Feeling the power of touch begins
long before a baby is even born. One of the first
senses to develop, research has shown that even by
8 weeks gestation (that is, 8 weeks after conception)
a fetus is able to respond to the sensation of touch
in utero. Babies use their own touch and the
touch of others to help soothe themselves as they
enter new environments. Even before birth, twins
have been observed on ultrasound, as early as 14
weeks, sucking on their twin’s face and fingers and
appearing to be touching and exploring their twin’s
face. Thus, regardless of whether a baby is born at
full term or whether they are delivered very preterm,
touch is an essential component to help them reach
their optimal potential.