Studying Fetal Breathing Patterns

Some babies have difficulty breathing, sucking, and swallowing at birth. The purpose of this study is to determine (before birth) the variables that will predict whether a newborn will experience these problems. Study participants will be pregnant women with a single fetus who are 18 years or older and who are scheduled to receive a standard prenatal ultrasound. Researchers will use the ultrasound to observe fetal motions associated with breathing, sucking, and swallowing on digital videotape. They will then review these tapes and take measurements that will help them document how breathing and swallowing develop.