Auckland, New Zealand (LifeNews.com) -- Researchers at Auckland University in New Zealand have revealed that unborn children begin to cry in the womb at 28 weeks into pregnancy. The scientists played a 90 decibel noise through a speaker placed on the stomachs of pregnant women and the babies cried because the noise was uncomfortable.

Researchers recorded the cries using ultrasound scanners.

"It was strikingly like an infant crying. Even the bottom lip quivers," professor Ed Mitchell told the London Sun newspaper.

Mitchell said the results of the study, coming days after a disputed study claiming unborn children don't feel pain until about the same time, show that legislation requiring giving babies anesthesia before an abortion are necessary.

"Maybe this is a wake-up call. We actually still do things to babies without anesthesia," he told the Sun.

Pro-life groups say the results aren't surprising because babies born prematurely -- as early as 23 and 24 weeks into pregnancy, cry after their birth -- showing they have the physical capacity to do so long before the results the New Zealand scientists found.

Phil Magnan, director of Biblical Family Advocates is calling on all Americans to consider a recent study when they think about abortion.

"Every mother recognizes the very human trait of the 'little quivering lower lip of their child,' that usually stirs up great care and sympathy," he said.

"This new study once again confirms the very personal face of a small child in the womb, that now is shown to be 'crying out,'" Magnan added.

Related web sites:
Read the results of the study -
http://fn.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/abstract/90/5/F415