EARLY FEEDING AND REGULATORY DIFFICULTIES IN CHILDREN CONCEIVED THROUGH ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
EARLY FEEDING AND REGULATORY DIFFICULTIES IN CHILDREN CONCEIVED THROUGH ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Summary/Abstract: Feeding behavior during infancy reflects the complex interplay of neurodevelopmental, sensory, and motor processes. This study explores early feeding and sensory regulatory patterns in children conceived via assisted reproductive technologies (ART) compared to those conceived naturally, emphasizing the role of perinatal and neonatal risk factors. A total of 3,076 children (0–18 years) were assessed through structured questionnaires and clinical observations. Four composite indices were analyzed: Feeding Mechanism Disruption, Sensory Features, Behavioral Regulation, and Early Dysregulation. While no significant differences emerged between ART and naturally conceived groups, children with neonatal complications consistently exhibited elevated feeding and sensory dysregulation scores. Multiple regression analysis confirmed neonatal complications, allergic responses, hereditary conditions, and early speech delays as significant predictors of disrupted feeding mechanisms. A weak but statistically significant inverse correlation was found between breastfeeding duration and feeding dysfunction (r = –0.13). The findings suggest that neonatal context, rather than conception method, plays a primary role in shaping early regulatory vulnerabilities. Early identification of multisystem risk profiles and integrated intervention strategies are essential for supporting children with complex neonatal histories.

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