Fetal behavior: a window to neurodevelopment and early diagnosis

The neurological assessment of the fetus is a necessary measure to monitor the pregnancy and early identification of diseases. The introduction of techniques for greater spatial and temporal resolution, particularly ultrasound in three (3D) and four dimensions (4D), is providing interesting insights into the behavior of the fetus and its close relationship with neurodevelopment. In turn, several factors can induce fetal responses that have immediate consequences and further comprise a predisposition defined as fetal programming. Consequently, the study of fetal behavior represents a window on the early diagnosis and to an attractive and promising field of knowledge: neurodevelopment.