The sucking reflex is a natural instinct found in infants, allowing them to feed effectively. This reflex enables babies to suck on their mother's breast or a bottle nipple, helping them obtain essential nutrients and hydration. It typically begins to develop in the womb and is fully present at birth. This reflex is crucial for survival, as it ensures that newborns can feed independently. The sucking reflex is often triggered by the presence of an object in the baby's mouth, stimulating the brain to initiate the sucking motion. As infants grow, this reflex gradually diminishes as they learn to eat solid foods.