[thedoc (OP)]

Robert Benton asked the Naked Scientists:
   My wife and I are first-time grandparents. One of the pictures of Anna we received showed her wearing little mittens. I asked why and was told it was to prevent a newborn from scratching their face. My question is do babies scratch their face while still in the womb? And if not, why?  Thanks!
What do you think?

[h3mp]

finger nails are so paper thin on newborns.. I wonder if the amniotic fluid keeps them softer which prevents scratching..

[Space Flow]

Robert Benton asked the Naked Scientists:
   My wife and I are first-time grandparents. One of the pictures of Anna we received showed her wearing little mittens. I asked why and was told it was to prevent a newborn from scratching their face. My question is do babies scratch their face while still in the womb? And if not, why?  Thanks!
What do you think?

This from a recent Great-Grand-Parent. 
I believe that babies are protected from doing such harm to themselves while in the womb.
Although there is probably new studies and I don't know what they might show, I remember being told that a baby's nails although they can be fairly long, while in the womb they are generally totally attached to the skin. 
Also the baby is wholly covered in a substantial layer of skin oil.
The combination of those two makes sure a baby can not harm itself before birth.
As I said my information may be outdated. 
If it is my defence is I am a very proud Great-Grand-Father.