Researchers from Lancaster University have found that unborn babies in the third trimester distinguish between face-like and non-face-like shapes.
Using 4D ultrasound technology, researchers were able to test whether or not facial preference develops while infants are in the womb.
Thirty-nine children were tested. Face-like shapes – three dots forming an inverted pyramid – and non-face-like shapes – three dots forming a pyramid – were shone into the womb. Researchers then tracked the foetuses’ head movements in response to these lights.
