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Have you ever scooped up your baby and noticed their tiny legs tuck in, arms curl up, and body fold into a sweet little ball? That adorable pose is what many parents lovingly call the “newborn scrunch.” It’s a totally normal (and totally irresistible!) part of your newborn’s early development. But what exactly causes the newborn scrunch—and when does it go away? We’ve got the scoop!

What is the newborn scrunch?

The newborn scrunch is that curled-up, compact posture babies often assume when you pick them up, lay them on your chest, or cuddle them close. Their legs pull up toward their belly, arms bend in, fists clench, and sometimes their head tucks a bit, too.

It’s not a sign of discomfort or distress. In fact, the scrunch is one of your baby’s very first “default settings.” Think of it as your newborn’s go-to pose, shaped by months of cozy life in the womb.

Why does the newborn scrunch happen?

Your baby spent around 40 weeks nestled in the snug quarters of your uterus. Inside that warm, watery world, there wasn’t a lot of room to stretch out! So, as Baby grew, they naturally adopted a fetal position—with their back curved, limbs tucked, and body snug.

That position doesn’t disappear the moment they’re born. Instead, they carry that familiar, comforting posture with them into the outside world. That’s the newborn scrunch! The newborn scrunch is part of something called physiological flexion—a normal state of muscle tone in newborns that helps them maintain that curled-up shape.

Is the newborn scrunch normal?

Yes! The newborn scrunch is a completely normal part of healthy newborn development. It’s especially noticeable during the first few weeks of life and is considered a reassuring sign that your baby’s nervous and muscular systems are developing appropriately.

In fact, doctors and pediatric physical therapists look for flexion when assessing newborns. It’s one of the key indicators that your baby has good muscle tone and is neurologically healthy.

And get this: The scrunch isn’t just cute—it’s functional! That flexed-up posture can help babies feel secure. It’s part of why swaddling works so well. Wrapping your little one snugly in a swaddle mimics the cozy feel of the womb—and supports that natural curled-up shape babies love. (Read up on the best swaddle for newborns!)

When does the newborn scrunch go away?

Like many baby reflexes and newborn behaviors, the scrunch gradually fades as your baby grows and gains more control over their body. Around 6 to 8 weeks, you’ll likely notice that your baby starts to stretch out more often. Their limbs will extend more easily, their movements will become smoother, and they’ll spend less time in that tightly curled position.

By about 2 to 3 months, most babies leave the scrunch behind as they hit motor milestones like lifting their head during tummy time, reaching with their arms, and kicking those little legs with gusto.

When to Call Your Pediatrician About the Newborn Scrunch

While the newborn scrunch is typically nothing to worry about, it’s always smart to check in with your pediatrician if:

  • Your baby seems unusually stiff or floppy
  • One side of their body is noticeably more curled or active than the other
  • They’re not gradually stretching out by 2 to 3 months
  • You have any concerns about their movement or muscle tone

These could be signs of a condition that may benefit from early intervention. The good news? Most movement concerns in babies can be managed very successfully with the right support.

Final Thoughts on the Newborn Scrunch

That cozy little curl your baby does when you pick them up? It’s one of the sweetest—and most normal—parts of newborn life. The newborn scrunch is your baby’s way of easing into the big, open world after months in the womb. And while it doesn’t last long, it’s one of those fleeting baby quirks that parents remember forever. (More moments to capture in your baby’s first year!)

More on Baby Development:

 

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REFERENCES

  • University of California San Francisco: Do Babies Move Like Us?
  • American Academy of Pediatrics: Newborn Physical Appearance
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Important Milestones: Your Baby at 2 Months
  • Medline Plus: Infant - Newborn Development 

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.