What is the predominant hemoglobin found in a healthy newborn?

In healthy newborns, the predominant hemoglobin is fetal hemoglobin (Hb F). Hb F is the main form of hemoglobin present during fetal development and is responsible for the efficient transport of oxygen from the mother to the fetus through the placenta. This form of hemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen than adult hemoglobin (Hb A), which facilitates oxygen uptake in the fetal environment, where oxygen tension is lower.

After birth, the levels of Hb F start to decrease, and production of Hb A increases, typically reaching adult levels around 6 months of age. While Gower-1 and Gower-2 are types of embryonic hemoglobins present early in development, they are not predominant in healthy newborns once the fetus is fully developed and prepares for life outside the womb. Thus, the presence of Hb F is crucial for newborns immediately after delivery, making it the correct answer to the question.