New research suggests that many pedophiles have developed physical deviations in the face and head during the prenatal period.

Researchers found that pedophiles are more likely to have superficial facial flaws and to be left-handed. Their study adds to a growing body of evidence that suggests pedophilia develops prenatally, around the same time that such physical flaws develop.

"Evidence is steadily accumulating to support a neurodevelopmental basis of pedophilia," researcher Fiona Dyshniku said in a statement. "If we find that pedophilia has a biological basis, with a very early, even prenatal onset, this will influence and hopefully improve methods of treatment for this group."

Facial deformities could, among others, include having non-detached earlobes, malformed ears, or a high or steepled palate. These anomalies develop during the sensitive first and early second trimesters while a baby is still in the womb, from the same primary embryonic tissue layer that gives rise to the central nervous system. They could also develop because of prenatal exposure to viruses, alcohol or drugs, obstetric complications, or nutritional deficiencies.

For the study, researchers collected and analyzed data from 140 consenting participants. They were assessed for distressing or illegal sexual behavior. This consisted of a forensic and medical file review, a semi-structured interview spanning offense and sexual history,

The found that facial anomalies are more prevalent among men, which might mean that the male brain is more susceptible to disruptive events during prenatal development.

The findings are detailed in Springer's journal Archives of Sexual Behavior.