ABCDE assessment
A rapid emergency assessment that checks airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure to identify immediate life-threatening problems.
A–Z Glossary
Pregnancy, baby, child development, health, and parenting terms explained in clear, simple language.
Pregnancy, Baby & Parenting Terms Explained
Understanding unfamiliar terms can make pregnancy, birth, baby care, child development, health, and parenting easier to navigate. Mamaspedia’s A–Z Glossary provides clear, mom-friendly definitions of common symptoms, conditions, procedures, body terms, developmental concepts, and everyday parenting language.
Browse terms alphabetically or use search to quickly find an explanation. Each glossary term also connects to related Mamaspedia articles where you can explore the topic in more detail.
A
ABC observation
ABC observation is a behavior-tracking method that records what happens before, during, and after a behavior.
Abdominal distension
Abdominal distension is swelling or enlargement of the abdomen, which can be a warning sign after possible magnet ingestion.
Abdominal incision
A deliberate cut made through body tissue during surgery, which requires monitoring and care while it heals.
Abdominal trauma
Injury to the abdomen that can happen with a fall, collision, or direct blow during outdoor activity.
Abnormal screening result
A screening finding that suggests a possible condition or cannot be interpreted reliably, but does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Abnormal test result
A test or reading outside the expected range that may need repeat measurement or closer follow-up.
absenteeism
Absenteeism means missing work because symptoms, illness, or job demands make attendance too difficult.
Absolute risk
The actual likelihood or probability that an outcome will occur within a specified group and time period.
Absorbable sutures
Absorbable sutures are stitches used for repair that dissolve on their own as tissue heals.
Abstinence
Abstinence is choosing not to have sex, which may be temporary or long term for personal, medical, or relationship reasons.
Academic Achievement
A performance level describes how consistently or effectively a particular criterion appears in a child’s work.
Academic goal
An academic goal is a specific learning or school-related result a child works toward over a defined period.
Academic Growth
Academic growth describes how much a student has advanced from a previous baseline over a period of time.
Academic integrity
Academic integrity means producing and submitting schoolwork honestly rather than copying or presenting someone else’s work as one’s own.
Academic pressure
Academic anxiety is worry or fear related to school performance that may lead to avoidance, distress, or reduced participation.
Academic socialization
Academic socialization is the process through which children develop beliefs about learning, future goals, and the value of education.
Acceptance
Acceptance is acknowledging that something is real and responding practically, even if you do not yet feel happy about it.
Accessibility
The design and support that allow children with physical, sensory, or medical needs to participate fully in school activities.
Account inventory
An account inventory is a list of online services a child uses, including login details, recovery contacts, and data risks.
Account security
Account security means protecting online accounts with safe logins, recovery plans, privacy settings, and routines that reduce unauthorized access.
Acetaminophen
A medicine used to relieve pain and reduce fever, also known as paracetamol in many countries.
Acid mantle
The acid mantle is the skin's slightly acidic protective surface layer that helps support barrier function.
Acne
A common skin condition that causes pimples and breakouts, and it can sometimes worsen during pregnancy.
Acoustic quality
How well a room’s sound conditions allow children to hear speech clearly despite reverberation, background noise, and competing sounds.
Acrocyanosis
A temporary bluish discoloration of a newborn’s hands and feet, usually caused by cool temperatures and improved by warming.
Action plan
A short, shared plan identifying priority goals, strategies, responsible adults, measures of progress, and dates for review.
Active ingredient
An active ingredient is the drug component in a medicine that produces its intended therapeutic effect.
Active labor
Active labor is the phase when contractions and cervical changes progress toward birth more consistently.
active listening
Listening carefully, reflecting what a child says, checking understanding, and avoiding immediate correction or minimization.
Active management of labor
Active management of labor is a planned, protocol-driven approach that uses defined assessments and interventions to address slow labor progress.
Active management of the third stage
Active management of the third stage is medical care after birth to help deliver the placenta and reduce bleeding risk.
Active-phase arrest
Active-phase arrest is no cervical dilation after active labor begins despite ruptured membranes and an adequate period of contractions or augmentation.
Active pushing
Bearing down is the deliberate or reflexive effort to push downward during contractions as the baby moves through the pelvis.
Active supervision
Intentional, proportionate observation and guidance that changes with a child's age, ability, task risk, and need for emergency support.
Activity restriction
A healthcare-directed limit on physical activities to reduce risk while a child recovers from illness or injury.
Activity tolerance
Activity tolerance is the amount and type of activity a baby can comfortably manage before needing rest or a change in stimulation.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a complementary treatment used by some pregnant people near term to encourage cervical change or contractions.
acute
A condition or symptom that starts suddenly and develops over a short period.
Acute stress response
An acute stress response is the body’s immediate reaction to a threatening or overwhelming event, often causing rapid worry, anger, or alarm.
Adaptive coping
Help-seeking is identifying a need, appropriately gaining attention, asking politely, and thanking the person who provides assistance.
Added sugar
Added sugar is sugar put into food or drinks during processing, preparation, or cooking rather than naturally present in whole foods.
Adhesions
Adhesions are internal bands of scar tissue that can form after abdominal surgery.
Adjustment
The process of adapting emotionally and behaviorally to a significant change, such as moving, while gradually regaining interest, functioning, and flexibility.
Adolescence
The teen developmental stage marked by rapid brain development, social learning, identity formation, and growing independence.
Adrenaline
A stress hormone that can rise when someone feels unsafe and make contractions feel more intense.
Advance care planning
Advance care planning is the process of documenting values, decision-makers, and important information for future medical care.
Advance directive
An advance directive is a formal document that guides medical care if a person cannot speak for themselves.
Adverse event
A health problem that happens after vaccination and may or may not be caused by the vaccine.
Advocacy
Self-advocacy is communicating one’s needs, requesting appropriate support, and participating in solutions while retaining responsibility.
aerobic activity
Exercise that raises the heart rate and breathing for a sustained period, often called cardio.
Affective Arousal
Affective arousal is the body’s emotional activation in response to an experience, such as frightening or upsetting online content.
Affordances
Affordances are the actions or uses an object makes possible for a child's body, such as hitting, grasping, or tapping.
Afterpains
Afterpains are cramp-like uterine pains following childbirth that may be more noticeable during breastfeeding or after previous births.
Age-appropriate activities
Age-appropriate activities are activities matched to a child’s abilities, stamina, understanding, and level of safe challenge.
Age-Appropriate Responsibilities
Tasks a child can reasonably learn and perform with assistance appropriate to the child's developmental stage, increasing participation and ownership over time.
Age label
An age label identifies a toy's intended developmental range and helps caregivers recognize hazards that may not be appropriate for younger children.
Agency
Agency is the feeling that you can influence what happens, express preferences, and get a fair turn.
Aggregate exposure
The total amount of a substance a person gets from all products, uses, and sources combined.
Aggression
Behavior intended to hurt, threaten, or intimidate, such as hitting, biting, choking, or using objects as weapons.
Airbag
A safety device in a car that inflates during a crash and is meant to work together with the seat belt.
Air-Drying
A drying method that removes residual moisture from clean feeding equipment by allowing it to dry naturally in circulating air.
Air travel during pregnancy
Air travel during pregnancy is usually safe when the pregnancy is uncomplicated, but timing, health conditions, and access to care affect risk.
Airway
The passage that carries air to the lungs and must remain open so a baby can breathe freely while being carried.
Airway narrowing
A reduction in airway size that makes airflow harder and can cause whistling breathing sounds in babies.
Airway positioning
Airway positioning means keeping a baby's head and neck positioned so the nose, mouth, and upper airway remain clear for breathing.
Alcohol
A psychoactive substance that is not considered safe in pregnancy and is generally avoided completely.
alert fatigue
A condition where too many notifications make clinicians less responsive to important alerts.
Algorithm
An algorithm is a set of software instructions that processes information to produce an outcome, such as selecting online content.
Algorithm Literacy
Algorithm literacy is the ability to understand how digital systems use data and predictions to shape what people see online.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis is noncontagious eye inflammation caused by an immune reaction to allergens such as pollen or dander.
allergic contact dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is an itchy skin reaction caused by contact with an ingredient that triggers an allergy.
Allostatic load
Allostatic load is the cumulative wear and tear on the body caused by repeated or prolonged stress responses.
Allowance
An allowance is money given for optional extra work, while basic household contributions remain part of participating in family life.
Allowed amount
An allowed amount is the negotiated rate an insurance plan recognizes for a covered healthcare service.
Alpha-fetoprotein
A fetal protein measured in maternal blood that may be elevated with an open neural tube defect or other pregnancy conditions.
Altitude
Higher-elevation environments where exercise feels harder and pregnant people may need a slower pace.
Ambivalence
Mixed emotions are simultaneous or rapidly changing feelings, such as relief, grief, fear, happiness, or resentment after birth.
Ambulatory surgery center
An ambulatory surgery center is an outpatient facility that performs procedures on screened patients and tracks safety events like transfers and revisits.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is an invasive prenatal diagnostic procedure that analyzes amniotic fluid to evaluate fetal chromosomes and other conditions.
Amnionicity
A description of whether twins share one amniotic sac or have separate sacs.
Amniotic fluid
Amniotic fluid is the liquid surrounding the fetus that supports development and can influence the fullness of the pregnant abdomen.
amniotic sac
The amniotic sac is the membrane-filled structure surrounding the fetus and amniotic fluid that can rupture before or during labor.
Amniotomy
Amniotomy is a procedure that intentionally ruptures the amniotic sac to support or accelerate labor when clinically appropriate.
amygdala
A brain structure that helps detect what is important and learn what feels threatening.
Anagen phase
The anagen phase is the active growth phase of hair follicles, which estrogen can prolong during pregnancy.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction that can cause bronchospasm, wheezing, skin symptoms, and circulatory instability.
Anchor
A routine anchor is an important event that stays relatively stable even when its exact clock time changes.
Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia is a clinical condition in which inadequate iron affects healthy blood formation and requires professional assessment.
Anesthesia
A deeper loss of sensation, often used when a procedure or surgical birth requires stronger numbing.
Aneuploidy
Aneuploidy is a chromosomal condition in which an embryo has too many or too few chromosomes.
anhedonia
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that used to feel enjoyable.
A-not-B Error
The A-not-B error is a pattern in which a baby repeatedly searches in an earlier hiding place after seeing an object moved elsewhere.
Anovulation
A menstrual cycle in which no egg is released from the ovary.
Antenatal anesthesia consultation
A pre-labor or early labor meeting with anesthesia staff to review whether an epidural or other pain relief is safe and practical.
Antenatal classes
Education before birth that helps people understand labor, consent, procedures, warning signs, and newborn care.
Antenatal corticosteroids
Steroid medicines given during pregnancy to help speed fetal lung maturity when preterm birth is a concern.
Antenatal hospitalization
Hospital admission before delivery for closer monitoring, testing, treatment, fetal assessment, or specialist care during pregnancy complications.
Anthropometric assessment
Anthropometric assessment evaluates physical measurements such as weight, length, and head circumference to monitor growth.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is loose or watery stool caused by medication-related changes in the balance of intestinal bacteria.
Antibiotic prophylaxis
Antibiotic prophylaxis is preventive antibiotic treatment given around a procedure to reduce the risk of developing an infection.
Antibiotic stewardship
Antibiotic stewardship means using antibiotics only when benefits are likely to outweigh risks and unnecessary exposure.
Anti-burst ball
An anti-burst ball is an inflatable ball designed to deflate gradually instead of rupturing suddenly if damaged.
Anticipatory anxiety
Performance anxiety is intense fear or nervousness that occurs when a person expects to speak, perform, or be evaluated by others.
Antidiarrheal medication
Antidiarrheal medication is medicine used to slow diarrhea, but it can be unsafe for infants unless a clinician recommends it.
Antiemetic
A medicine used to reduce nausea and vomiting, sometimes given by injection, infusion, rectal, or other non-oral routes.
Antihypertensive medication
Medicine used to lower unsafe blood pressure and reduce stroke risk while maintaining blood flow to the placenta.
Antiphospholipid syndrome
An autoimmune condition that increases abnormal clotting and can cause pregnancy loss.
Antipyretic
An antipyretic is a medicine used to reduce fever, with the goal of improving comfort rather than always normalizing temperature.
anxiety
Anxiety is excessive worry or fear that can cause emotional, physical, sleep, and school-functioning difficulties in children.
Anxiety disorder
An anxiety disorder is a condition in which fear and worry are persistent, hard to control, and disruptive.
Anxiety disorder during pregnancy
A condition involving persistent worry, panic symptoms, or intrusive thoughts during pregnancy that interfere with daily life.
Aorta
The aorta is the body’s largest artery, carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Aortic aneurysm
An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement of the aorta that can rupture and become rapidly life-threatening.
Aortic rupture
An aortic rupture is a life-threatening tear or break in the main artery that can cause collapse, shock, or rapid death.
Aorto-caval compression
Aorto-caval compression occurs when the pregnant uterus presses on major blood vessels, especially during prolonged flat-on-the-back positioning.
Apgar score
A newborn assessment recorded at one and five minutes that describes breathing, heart rate, tone, color, and response after birth.
Aphasia
Aphasia is an acquired language disorder that can affect communication after changes or injury involving the brain.
Apnea
Apnea is a pause or stop in breathing that requires immediate emergency attention in a baby.
apology
An apology is a statement that takes responsibility for a hurtful action and acknowledges the other person's feelings.
App permissions
Requests that allow an app to use device features or information such as location, photos, contacts, camera, or microphone.
Areolar darkening
Darkening of the skin around the nipples that is common and usually normal during pregnancy.
Aromatherapy
Use of scents, essential oils, or scented products, sometimes for comfort, that may also trigger symptoms or sensitivities.
Arousal
Physiological arousal is a state of increased bodily alertness and emotional activation that can make it harder to calm down or sleep.
Arousal regulation
An infant's ability to become calmer, more alert, sleepier, or more organized in response to caregiving and surroundings.
Articulation
Articulation is the process of shaping airflow and voiced sound with the tongue, lips, and other parts of the mouth.
Artificial intelligence-generated content
Artificial intelligence-generated content is media made or altered by AI that may look or sound realistic even when fabricated.
Aspiration
Aspiration is the entry of food, liquid, or secretions into the airway, potentially causing recurrent wheezing and chronic cough.
assertive communication
Clear, respectful communication that states needs or feelings without attacking others.
Assertiveness
Assertiveness is clear, respectful self-expression that lets a child state needs or boundaries without being aggressive.
Assisted positioning
The use of another person’s hands, body weight, or verbal cues to help someone move into, hold, or leave a labor or recovery position.
Assisted vaginal birth
Operative vaginal birth uses instruments such as a vacuum or forceps to assist delivery in selected clinical circumstances.
Assistive communication
Communication supports such as preprogrammed messages, visual cards, or button sequences that help a nonspeaking child seek an adult.
Association
A relationship where two things happen together more often, without proving that one caused the other.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disorder causing recurring wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
ASTM F963
ASTM F963 is the main U.S. toy safety standard that sets requirements to reduce hazards in toys for children.
Asymmetric tonic neck reflex
The asymmetric tonic neck reflex produces a fencing-like posture when a newborn’s head turns, extending limbs on the face side and flexing the opposite limbs.
Atelectasis
Atelectasis is a partial collapse of small airways that may develop after anesthesia and prolonged bed rest.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a recurrent inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed patches and is commonly called eczema.
Atopy
Atopy is an inherited tendency to develop allergic diseases, including allergic asthma, eczema, and other hypersensitivity conditions.
Attention bid
A behavior or signal a baby uses to get a caregiver’s response, such as looking, babbling, reaching, or making a sound.
Attention difficulties
Attention difficulties are problems sustaining focus, concentrating, or managing distractions during learning, play, or daily activities.
Audience collapse
A situation where separate groups of people see the same online content, changing how it may be interpreted.
Audiology testing
A test that checks how well a child can hear sounds and speech.
Auditory processing
Auditory processing is how a baby’s brain notices, interprets, and responds to sounds such as voices, music, or noise.
augmentative and alternative communication
Communication methods that supplement or replace speech, such as visual cards, gestures, or preprogrammed communication devices.
Authoritative caregiving
Authoritative caregiving is a parenting style that combines warmth, responsiveness, firm limits, and consistent expectations.
Authorization for release of medical information
An authorization for release of medical information is written permission allowing a healthcare practice to send specified records to another recipient.
Automated auditory brainstem response
Automated auditory brainstem response testing measures electrical activity along the hearing pathway after sounds are presented to a baby.
Autonomic arousal
A physiological state of alertness, vigilance, and stress reactivity that can make it harder for a child to settle.
Autonomic nervous system
The autonomic nervous system helps regulate arousal and body functions such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, and stress responses.
Autonomic regulation
The developing ability to manage automatic body functions and remain organized during activity or sensory input.
Autonomy
A child's gradually developing ability to participate in daily tasks, make choices, solve manageable problems, and contribute with appropriate support.
Autonomy support
Autonomy support is a parenting approach where children have an age-appropriate voice while adults keep clear boundaries and limits.
Autosomal recessive inheritance
Autosomal recessive inheritance means a child may be affected when both reproductive partners carry variants in the same gene.
Auto-videosomnography
Auto-videosomnography is an objective method that uses automated video analysis to measure and assess infant sleep behavior.
Avoidance
Avoidance is trying to escape a task, feeling, or situation that seems threatening, overwhelming, or likely to lead to criticism or failure.
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Babbling
A stage of early speech in which babies repeat speech-like sounds as practice for talking.
Babinski reflex
The Babinski reflex causes the great toe to extend and the other toes to fan when the sole is stroked.
Baby blues
A short-lived period of tearfulness, mood swings, anxiety, or irritability after birth.
Baby bottle nipple
A baby bottle nipple is the soft feeding tip that controls how milk leaves the bottle for an infant.
Baby dropping
A late-pregnancy change in which the fetus descends into the pelvis, making the abdomen or uterus feel lower before birth.
Baby food maker
A specialized appliance that can steam ingredients, blend them, or perform both preparation steps in one vessel.
Baby frustration
Frustration is an emotional response that occurs when a goal is blocked or a demand becomes overwhelming.
Baby gear subscription service
A service that lets families rent, rotate, or exchange baby equipment instead of buying every item.
Baby Growth Spurt
A short period when a baby may eat or sleep differently because of rapid growth or development.
Baby-led weaning
A complementary feeding approach in which babies pick up appropriately prepared foods and control their own eating pace.
baby-proofing
Stranger safety teaches children practical rules for uncertain situations involving unfamiliar people, animals, or environments without making them fearful.
Baby registry
A baby registry is a curated list of items and support that family and friends can choose to provide for an expected baby.
Baby routine
A baby routine is a familiar pattern of cues and activities that helps a baby anticipate what comes next.
Baby schedule
A baby schedule is a planned pattern for feeding, sleeping, playing, and caregiving at approximately specified times.
Baby sling
A fabric carrying device that supports a baby against a caregiver’s body while allowing hands-free carrying.
Baby Walker
A baby walker is a mobile infant device that can create hazards by allowing fast movement and access to unsafe areas.
Babywearing
Babywearing is carrying an infant or young child close to a caregiver’s body using a sling, wrap, or carrier.
Background television
Background television is television playing nearby when a child is not actively watching, which may still affect attention and interaction.
Back labor
Back labor is labor pain or pressure felt mainly in the lower back that rises and falls with contractions.
back pain
Pain in the lower back that can happen during labor and may continue between contractions.
Backup child care
Backup child care is prearranged alternate supervision available when a parent’s work demands, illness, or emergencies disrupt the usual plan.
Backward planning
Backward planning is organizing steps by working from a due date toward earlier checkpoints for completing and reviewing a task.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis is pink eye caused by bacteria, often suspected with thick discharge and eyelids stuck after sleep.
Balance
The ability to stay steady without tipping over.
Balance Billing
Balance billing occurs when an out-of-network provider bills a patient for amounts beyond the insurer’s allowed payment.
Balance Development
Sitting balance is the ability to control the body’s center of mass over its support base while the head, trunk, and limbs move.
Ballistic stretching
A fast, bouncy style of stretching that uses repeated movement instead of a slow, steady hold.
Balloon catheter
Balloon catheter induction is a mechanical ripening method that uses an inflated balloon to apply pressure inside the cervix.
Barking cough
A barking cough is a harsh, brassy cough characteristic of croup and often becomes sudden or worse during nighttime.
Barrier cream
Barrier ointment is a protective skin product that may help shield an infant's irritated skin from moisture and further irritation.
Basal body temperature
Basal body temperature is the body’s resting temperature, measured each morning to help identify patterns associated with ovulation.
Basal insulin
Longer-acting insulin that helps control background blood sugar between meals and overnight.
Baseline
A person’s usual pattern of symptoms, measurements, and functioning used to recognize meaningful change over time.
Bassinet
A small infant sleep space designed for a young baby and typically placed beside an adult bed.
Bathroom independence
Bathroom independence is a child’s gradual ability to manage restroom tasks safely while receiving supervision appropriate to their development.
Bath safety
Bath safety involves preparing supplies, staying within immediate reach, and never leaving a young child unattended in or near bathwater.
Bed-sharing
Bed-sharing means an infant and caregiver sleep on the same sleep surface rather than on separate surfaces.
Bedtime routine
A bedtime routine is a dependable wind-down sequence, such as washing, pajamas, reading, and goodnight, that supports sleep preparation.
Behavioral activation
A strategy that builds momentum by beginning a small, manageable action instead of waiting to feel fully motivated.
Behavioral dysregulation
Emotional dysregulation is difficulty identifying, expressing, or recovering from strong emotions.
Behavioral inhibition
A temperament style marked by caution, hesitation, and a slow approach to unfamiliar people or activities.
Benzocaine
Benzocaine is a topical numbing medicine that can be dangerous for infants if used in teething products.
Bilateral coordination
The ability to use both sides of the body together in a coordinated way during movement and manipulation tasks.
Bilious vomiting
Bilious vomiting is green or yellow vomit that may contain bile and can suggest an urgent gastrointestinal problem.
Billed charge
A billed charge is the provider's initial submitted price for a healthcare service before insurance adjustments or payments.
Bioavailability
Bioavailability is the amount of a medicine that reaches the bloodstream and can produce its intended effect.
Biofeedback therapy
A treatment that uses feedback to retrain muscle coordination during bowel movements.
birth backup plan
A backup plan for labor and birth that lays out what to do if plans change or urgent symptoms appear.
Birth center
A maternity care setting for low-risk pregnancies that offers labor and birth services outside a hospital.
Birth center eligibility criteria
Birth center eligibility criteria are written rules used to decide whether a pregnancy is appropriate for birth center care.
Birth center emergency protocol
A planned set of routes, boundaries, check-ins, and responses that helps children manage risks during independent dog walking.
Birth checklist
A birth checklist is a concise document organizing critical medical information, clinician-reviewed plans, and flexible birth preferences.
Birth dissonance
Birth dissonance is the emotional and cognitive tension that occurs when an expected birth experience differs from what actually happens.
Birth emergency
An urgent complication during labor, birth, or early postpartum that may require rapid coordinated care for the birthing person, baby, or both.
Birthing ball
A large inflatable ball used for rocking, circles, and other position changes during labor.
Birth partner
A birth partner provides emotional, physical, informational, and practical support to a person during labor and birth.
Birth plan
Birth preferences are a communication document describing desired support, pain relief, mobility, monitoring, and feeding choices during birth.
Birth satisfaction
Birth satisfaction is a person's evaluation of how their labor and birth experience felt, including its outcome, support, communication, and sense of control.
Birth setting
The birth environment is the physical, sensory, social, and communication setting surrounding labor and childbirth.
Birth story
A birth story is a personal account that organizes labor, delivery, emotions, and the transition into parenthood.
Birth trauma
Birth trauma is significant emotional distress after a birth experience that felt frightening, overwhelming, helpless, or unsafe.
Birth weight
Birth weight is a newborn’s body weight measured shortly after delivery and interpreted according to gestational age and other factors.
Birth-weight regain
Birth-weight regain is a newborn's return to the weight recorded at birth, often occurring within ten to fourteen days.
Bishop score
The Bishop score is a clinical measure that summarizes cervical readiness before labor induction.
Blastocyst
A blastocyst is an early cluster of cells that develops from a dividing fertilized egg before implantation.
Bleach
A common cleaning and disinfecting product that usually contains sodium hypochlorite.
Blood glucose monitoring
Repeated checking of blood sugar levels, often at home, to see whether glucose stays within the desired range.
Blood pressure monitoring
Regular tracking of blood pressure readings to detect hypertension patterns during or after pregnancy.
Blood transfusion
Giving donated blood through a vein to replace blood loss or treat severe anemia.
Bloody show
A bloody show is blood-tinged mucus released as the cervix begins to efface and dilate near labor.
Blue light
Blue light is a short-wavelength light from screens and some bulbs that can signal the brain to stay awake and delay sleep.
body autonomy
A person’s right to control what happens to their body and refuse unnecessary touching, photographs, or private contact.
Body awareness
Body awareness is an infant’s developing understanding of the body as a distinct, moving, sensing, and perceiving self.
Body checking
Repeatedly monitoring your body, such as weighing yourself or checking mirrors or photos, in a way that can feed anxiety.
body mass index
Body mass index is a measure that relates body weight to height and is commonly used to assess older children and adolescents.
Body midline
The body midline is an imaginary vertical line that divides the body into right and left halves.
Body Proportions
Body proportions describe the relative size and shape of body regions, such as the head, trunk, arms, and legs, as children grow.
Body representation
Body representation is the brain’s organized understanding of the body, including its parts, position, movement, and sensory experiences.
Bonding
A close emotional bond that helps a child feel safe and responsive to a caregiver.
Booster seat
A child restraint that raises a child so the vehicle’s lap-and-shoulder belt fits correctly across the pelvis, chest, and shoulder.
Bottle Drying Rack
A raised surface that holds washed feeding equipment apart so air can circulate while water drains away during drying.
Bottle Nipple Flow
Nipple flow is the rate at which milk passes through a bottle nipple during feeding.
Bottle propping
Bottle propping is wedging a bottle against an object so a baby can feed without an attentive caregiver holding it.
Bottle refusal
Bottle refusal is a baby's repeated hesitation or rejection of bottle feeding despite possibly feeding normally at the breast.
Bottle warmer
A bottle warmer is an appliance that gently heats a baby bottle using water, steam, or a controlled heating chamber.
boundary
Limits that communicate what a child is comfortable with and identify behaviour that is unacceptable or unsafe.
BRAIN decision-making framework
BRAIN decision-making is a labor decision tool for asking about benefits, risks, alternatives, recommendations, and the option to wait.
BRAT diet
The BRAT diet is a short-term food pattern of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast sometimes used during diarrhea.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular practice contractions that usually improve with rest or hydration and do not steadily intensify.
Breast engorgement
Breast engorgement is breast fullness caused by increased milk production, blood flow, lymphatic congestion, and fluid accumulation after birth.
Breastfed stool
Breastfed stool is usually soft or loose, mustard-yellow or yellow-green, and may contain small seed-like particles.
Breastfeeding biting
Breastfeeding biting is when an infant briefly clamps or bites the breast, usually during pauses or near the end of a feed.
breastfeeding position
A way of holding and aligning a baby during nursing to support breathing, attachment, milk transfer, and parental comfort.
Breast milk
Breast milk is the milk produced by a lactating person to feed an infant.
Breast Milk Storage
The handling and storage of expressed breast milk using appropriate containers, temperatures, labels, timing, and discard rules.
breast pump
A breast pump is a device that removes milk from the breast so it can be collected and stored for later feeding.
Breast refusal
Breast refusal is when a baby resists or will not feed at the breast, sometimes because feeding has become stressful or uncomfortable.
breast tenderness
Breast soreness, sensitivity, or swelling that can occur when pregnancy hormones increase breast tissue and blood flow.
Breath-holding
A coached pushing style in which a person holds the breath during the push.
breathing exercises
Controlled breathing uses slow, comfortable breaths, often with a slightly longer exhale, to reduce overbreathing and manage physical anxiety symptoms.
Breech presentation
Breech presentation occurs when the fetus is not positioned head-down, such as with the buttocks or feet oriented toward the birth canal.
bromelain
A group of enzymes in pineapple that is often linked to the idea that pineapple might start labor.
Bronchioles
The small airways deep in the lungs that move air in and out and can narrow during bronchiolitis.
Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is an infection and inflammation of the small airways, most commonly affecting infants and causing wheezing and breathing difficulty.
Buddy system
A safety arrangement in which a child walks with a sibling, neighbor, or friend instead of traveling alone.
Bullying
Bullying is repeated harmful or intimidating behavior by peers that can affect a child’s safety, learning, participation, or emotional wellbeing.
Buoyancy
The force that helps an object float in water.
Burns
Burns are tissue injuries caused by heat, hot liquids, chemicals, electricity, flames, or other sources of damaging energy.
Burping
Burping helps release swallowed air after feeding and may make a newborn more comfortable if they seem unsettled.
button battery
Button battery ingestion occurs when a child swallows a small button-shaped battery, which can cause rapid internal injury.
Bystander role
The bystander role is the responsibility of someone who receives harmful content to avoid spreading it and seek support.
C
Cabin pressure
The air pressure maintained inside an aircraft cabin, which is lower than sea-level pressure but generally tolerated during uncomplicated pregnancy.
caffeine
A stimulant found in true teas and many other drinks that may need to be limited during pregnancy.
Calcium
A mineral that supports fetal bone and teeth development while helping maintain the pregnant person’s skeletal health.
Calibrated confidence
Calibrated trust means neither believing everything nor dismissing everything, but judging sources by expertise, evidence, and accountability.
Calorie
A calorie is a unit of energy in food and drink that the body uses as fuel.
Canonical Consonant-Vowel Syllables
Canonical consonant-vowel syllables are repeated speech-like sequences that combine consonants and vowels, such as ba-ba-ba or da-da-da.
capsaicin
A compound in spicy foods that stimulates pain and heat receptors in the mouth and gut.
Carbon dioxide
A gas released when baking soda and vinegar react, creating fizz and foam.
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, potentially fatal gas produced by fuel-burning devices and dangerous in enclosed spaces.
Carbon monoxide exposure
Carbon monoxide exposure occurs when carbon monoxide enters the body and reduces oxygen availability by binding to hemoglobin.
Cardiac arrest
A medical emergency in which a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally because effective circulation has stopped.
cardiac preload
The amount of blood filling the heart before it pumps, which can fall when back-lying compresses blood vessels.
Cardinal movements of labor
The cardinal movements of labor are sequential fetal positional adjustments that help the baby move through the pelvis during birth.
cardiovascular disease
Disease of the heart and blood vessels, including conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
Cardiovascular fitness
Cardiorespiratory fitness is how efficiently the heart and lungs supply the body with oxygen during physical activity.
Care Area
A designated zone in a home organized for a specific caregiving activity, such as feeding, diapering, sleeping, bathing, or play.
Care Cycle
A care cycle is a repeatable sequence of newborn care activities, such as feeding, burping, changing, soothing, observing, and resting.
Caregiver boundaries
Caregiver boundaries are clearly stated limits about responsibilities, visits, communication, transportation, privacy, and working conditions.
Caregiver recognition
A baby's developing ability to identify familiar caregivers through repeated voice, smell, face, touch, and routine cues.
Caregiver sleep deprivation
Caregiver fatigue is exhaustion that can impair attention, judgment, memory, and reaction time while caring for a baby.
Caregiver strain
Caregiver stress is the physical and emotional response to demands such as infant crying, including tension, shame, anger, or rapid breathing.
Carrier screening
Carrier screening checks whether a person carries a gene variant linked to an inherited condition that could affect a child.
Carrying high
Carrying high means the pregnant uterus and abdominal prominence appear closer to the upper abdomen or rib area.
Carrying low
Carrying low means the pregnancy bump appears to sit lower in the pelvis or lower abdomen.
Car seat expiration date
The date after which a car seat should no longer be used because its safety performance can no longer be assured.
Car seat harness
A five-point harness is a child restraint with waist, crotch, and shoulder straps that helps keep a child securely seated.
Car-seat harness
A car-seat harness is the restraint system that secures a child in a car seat during travel.
Car seat safety
Car seat safety involves choosing, installing, and using a seat according to the child’s size, manufacturer instructions, and local requirements.
Cascade of interventions
A sequence in which one labor intervention makes additional interventions more likely.
Castor oil
Castor oil induction uses castor oil to irritate the gastrointestinal tract and potentially stimulate uterine activity.
Catastrophic thinking
Catastrophic thinking is expecting the worst possible outcome and treating uncertain events as if they will cause complete failure or disaster.
Catch-Up Growth
Catch-up growth is faster-than-average growth that helps a child who started smaller move toward a higher position on a growth chart.
Catecholamines
Stress-related chemicals, including adrenaline, that rise during a brief alarm response.
Category II fetal heart rate tracing
A fetal heart rate pattern that is indeterminate, meaning it is neither clearly normal nor clearly abnormal.
Catharsis
Catharsis is a feeling of emotional release that may follow expressing or processing difficult experiences.
Causation
Play in which a child performs an action and observes a predictable result from that action.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease is an immune-mediated condition that can impair nutrient absorption after gluten-containing foods are introduced.
Center of gravity
The point where body weight is balanced; it shifts during pregnancy and can affect stability.
Central incisors
Central incisors are the two front teeth in each dental arch, with the lower pair usually erupting first in babies.
Cephalic presentation
A fetal position in which the baby is head-down and generally oriented for vaginal birth.
Cephalization
Cephalization is a developmental pattern in which the head is relatively large compared with the rest of the body.
Cephalocaudal development
Cephalocaudal development describes motor control progressing from the head and neck downward toward the trunk and legs.
Cephalohematoma
A collection of blood beneath the membrane covering a newborn’s skull bone that usually resolves gradually but may contribute to jaundice.
Cephalopelvic disproportion
Cephalopelvic disproportion is a suspected mismatch in which the fetal head and maternal pelvis do not align effectively for birth.
Cervical dilation
Cervical dilation is the opening and widening of the cervix, reaching approximately 10 centimeters before pushing usually begins.
Cervical effacement
Cervical effacement is the thinning and shortening of the cervix as the body prepares for and progresses through labor.
Cervical examination
An internal labor exam used to assess cervical dilation, effacement, fetal station, position, and labor progress.
Cervical insufficiency
Cervical insufficiency occurs when the cervix opens or shortens too early in pregnancy, potentially increasing the risk of premature birth.
cervical mucus
Cervical mucus is vaginal fluid whose consistency changes during the menstrual cycle and may signal that ovulation is approaching.
Cervical readiness
How prepared the cervix is for labor, including whether it is soft, shortened, and starting to open.
cervical ripening
Cervical ripening is the process of helping the cervix soften, thin, and open before labor induction.
Cervical swelling
Swelling of the cervix during labor that can make dilation slow, stall, or appear to reverse.
cervix
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina and helps separate the uterus from vaginal penetration.
Cesarean birth
Cesarean delivery is a surgical birth in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
Cesarean recovery
Cesarean recovery is the healing period after surgical birth, involving postoperative monitoring, pain management, movement, wound care, and postpartum support.
Cesarean wound infection
A cesarean incision infection is an infection at the surgical wound that may cause redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or worsening pain.
chafing
Skin irritation caused by repeated rubbing.
changing station
A changing table is an elevated surface for diaper changes that needs a stable base, approved pad, restraint system, and active supervision.
Check-first rule
A check-first rule is a family safety routine where children pause and ask an adult before risky online actions.
Chest compressions
Chest compressions are rhythmic presses on the lower sternum that help keep blood moving during CPR.
Chest retractions
Retractions occur when the skin pulls inward around the ribs, ribcage, or neck, indicating increased work of breathing.
Chignon
Caput is soft swelling of the baby’s scalp that can develop from pressure during labor.
Child abduction
The taking or separating of a child from caregivers without permission, which may involve a family member, acquaintance, or unknown person.
Childbirth advocacy
Childbirth advocacy means helping a birthing person communicate preferences, understand care, and have questions addressed during birth.
Childbirth confidence
Childbirth confidence is the belief that you can participate in labor decisions, use coping strategies, ask for help, and adapt to changes.
Child-Directed Speech
Child-directed speech is speech adapted for babies with expressive intonation, clear pauses, repetition, and a warm, attentive tone.
Child Online Privacy
A child’s protection and control over personal information, location, images, messages, and other data shared online.
Child Passenger Safety Technician
A trained professional who helps families choose, install, and assess child restraints for a vehicle and a child’s individual needs.
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act
The COPPA Rule is a U.S. privacy regulation requiring certain online services to notify parents and obtain verifiable consent before collecting children’s information.
Children's Product Certificate
A Children's Product Certificate is a document issued by a manufacturer or importer showing that a children's product meets applicable safety requirements.
Child-Resistant Closure
A child-resistant closure is packaging designed to make access more difficult for children, though it does not completely prevent access.
Child-resistant packaging
Packaging designed to make it harder for children to open medications and other substances, but it is not completely childproof.
Chin-to-chest positioning
A deeply flexed neck position in which the chin rests against the chest and can narrow a young infant’s airway.
CHIP
The Children’s Health Insurance Program provides health coverage for some children whose families earn too much to qualify for Medicaid.
choking
Choking prevention uses developmentally appropriate foods, removal of small objects, seated eating, and age-appropriate response training.
Choking hazard
An object or piece small enough to block a child’s airway and cause choking.
Cholestasis of pregnancy
A pregnancy condition that can cause intense, generalized itching and needs medical evaluation.
Choline
A nutrient involved in brain and cell membrane formation.
Chores
Chores are ordinary household tasks children complete to practise skills, contribute to family life, and gradually become more independent.
Chorionicity
Chorionicity describes whether multiples share a placenta or amniotic sac, which affects monitoring and birth timing.
Chorionic villi
Tiny fingerlike projections in the placenta that usually contain genetic material matching the fetus.
Chorionic villus sampling
Chorionic villus sampling is an invasive prenatal diagnostic test that removes a small placental tissue sample to analyze fetal chromosomes.
Chromosomal abnormality
A chromosomal abnormality is a genetic problem involving an incorrect number or structure of chromosomes in an embryo or fetus.
Chromosomal microarray
Chromosomal microarray is a genetic test that can detect some chromosomal deletions or duplications in fetal cells.
Chronic absenteeism
Chronic absenteeism means missing a substantial proportion of scheduled school days, according to the applicable state or district definition.
Chronic stress
Chronic stress is a prolonged stress response that can disrupt sleep, emotional regulation, immune resilience, memory, and learning.
Circadian rhythm
A disturbance in the body’s sleep-wake timing, which can be affected by evening light exposure and nighttime device use.
Circular economy
An economic model that keeps products and materials in use through reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling.
Classical uterine incision
A classical uterine incision is a vertical cut in the upper uterus that may increase rupture risk.
Class placement
Class placement is the school’s administrative decision assigning a child to a grade, instructional group, or academic level.
Classroom change
A classroom change is moving a child to another placement when safety, education, participation, or wellbeing is substantially affected.
Clean-catch technique
A clean-catch technique is a way of collecting a urine sample to reduce contamination.
Clinginess
Clinginess is an increased need for caregiver closeness, often shown by wanting to be held and resisting separation.
closed-glottis pushing
A forceful breath-holding technique that can sharply increase pressure inside the abdomen during physical exertion.
Closed-loop communication
Closed-loop communication is a safety technique in which an instruction is repeated back and confirmed as understood.
Cluster feeding
Cluster feeding is a pattern in which an infant feeds frequently over a concentrated period, often temporarily during growth or developmental changes.
coached pushing
A coached form of labor pushing in which the care team gives instructions about when and how to push.
Coagulation disorder
A coagulation disorder is a clotting problem that can contribute to excessive bleeding during or after birth.
coercive behavior
Verbal or physical pressure used to make someone comply or gain status.
coercive control
A pattern of pressure, anger, exclusion, or shame used to force another child to comply.
Coercive cycle
A repeated pattern where one child escalates, the other retaliates, and aggression is unintentionally reinforced.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an approach that helps people change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors by examining how they interact with feelings and body sensations.
cognitive development
The growth of thinking, learning, and problem-solving abilities as a child develops.
Cognitive dissonance
The mental discomfort that happens when beliefs and experiences clash.
cognitive flexibility
The ability to shift attention or behavior from one activity or demand to another.
Cognitive load
The amount of mental effort required to process information, complete a task, or manage distractions in an environment.
Coinsurance
Coinsurance is the percentage of an insurance plan’s allowed amount that the patient pays after meeting applicable deductibles.
Colic
Colic is recurrent, hard-to-console crying in early infancy that often peaks during the first months.
Collaborative Problem Solving
Collaborative Problem Solving is an approach where adults and children work together to solve a child's concern while keeping clear limits.
colostrum
Colostrum is the early breast fluid produced during pregnancy and after birth before mature breast milk becomes established.
Combination feeding
Combination feeding provides an infant with both breast milk and infant formula to meet nutritional needs.
Combined spinal-epidural analgesia
A combined spinal-epidural is a neuraxial technique using a fast spinal dose followed by an epidural catheter for ongoing pain relief.
Comfort positioning
Comfort positioning is a secure, supportive way to hold an infant during care while allowing access to the body area being examined or treated.
comfort progression
A gradual, step-by-step way of rebuilding closeness by checking comfort and stopping when touch becomes uncomfortable.
Communication hierarchy
A plan that names one person to receive updates and share them with others to reduce repeated calls and confusion.
communication skills
The abilities children use to understand, share, and use language and other signals to interact with people.
Communication tree
A communication tree is an arranged contact system specifying who makes calls, shares information, collects children, and updates others during changing circumstances.
comorbidity
A separate condition that exists alongside pregnancy-related symptoms or another illness.
Competitive games
Games in which players try to beat others rather than succeed together.
Complementary feeding
Complementary feeding is the introduction of solid foods and textures alongside breast milk or infant formula as a baby develops.
Complete blood count
A complete blood count, a blood test that measures cells such as red cells, white cells, and platelets.
Complete breech
Complete breech is a breech position where the baby’s hips and knees are flexed, making the baby appear seated cross-legged.
complicated grief
Complicated grief is a prolonged, intensely distressing grief response that keeps a person stuck and unable to resume life.
compromise
Compromise is an agreement in which each side gives up something to reach a fair solution.
Compulsive checking
Compulsive checking is repeated monitoring of a body sign or symptom to relieve anxiety temporarily.
Compulsive sexual behavior
Compulsive sexual behavior is a repeated pattern that feels uncontrollable, causes distress, or interferes with daily responsibilities and relationships.
Computed tomography scan
A computed tomography scan uses X-rays to create detailed images and may identify bleeding, skull fractures, or other structural emergencies.
Computer-mediated communication
The abilities children use to understand, create, and respond to messages through texts, video calls, games, and other digital spaces.
Concentration
Concentration is the amount of active medication contained in a specific volume of liquid, such as milligrams per milliliter.
Conception
Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell penetrates an egg, creating the first cell of a developing embryo.
Conciliatory gesture
A conciliatory gesture is a concrete action meant to help repair a hurt relationship and make amends.
concussion
A concussion is a brain injury that may cause confusion, headache, vomiting, seizure, loss of consciousness, or difficulty staying awake.
Conditioned arousal
Conditioned arousal is when the brain learns to link bed with alertness, effort, and worry instead of sleep.
Confidentiality
Protecting private personal, medical, family, or emotional information by sharing it only with people who need to know.
Confined placental mosaicism
A situation where the placenta and fetus have different chromosome patterns, which can make NIPT look abnormal when the fetus is normal.
conflict repair
Communication repair is the process of addressing misunderstandings, clarifying expectations, and helping a child safely re-enter a learning relationship.
conflict resolution
The process of addressing disagreements by expressing concerns, listening, considering solutions, and repairing relationships when appropriate.
Conformity
The tendency to match group norms in order to maintain acceptance or fit in.
Confounding by indication
Confounding by indication occurs when people in compared groups differ because their care setting reflects medical need rather than random assignment.
Congenital heart defects
Congenital heart defects are structural heart problems present at birth that develop during pregnancy.
congenital infection
An infection present before birth, acquired from the mother during pregnancy.
Congenital malformations
Structural birth defects that develop before birth and are present at delivery.
Conjunctiva
The conjunctiva is the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelids.
Consent-based touch during labor
Physical touch used only when it is wanted and clearly helpful during labor.
Consent form
A consent form is a signed document that may record a consent discussion but does not replace the discussion itself.
constipation
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements that may occur when progesterone relaxes gastrointestinal muscles and slows intestinal transit.
Contact sleep
Contact sleep is when an infant sleeps while being held or resting in close physical contact with a caregiver.
contact sports
Sports with a higher chance of body contact or collision, which increase injury risk during pregnancy.
Contagious illness
An illness that can spread from one person to another, especially when symptoms suggest active infection.
Contingency fund
A contingency fund is money reserved to cover unexpected costs or changes in a baby's needs.
Contingency planning
Contingency planning prepares responses for possible changes in labor, care needs, transportation, childcare, or other practical circumstances.
Continuity of care
Consistent care in which information and clinical judgment carry forward from one healthcare encounter to the next.
Continuous glucose monitoring
A system that tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night using a small sensor.
Continuous positive airway pressure
A noninvasive breathing support that keeps small airways open while a newborn continues breathing on their own.
Contraction duration
Contraction duration is the time from when uterine tightening begins until the uterus has completely relaxed.
Contraction interval
Contraction spacing is the interval from the beginning of one uterine contraction to the beginning of the next.
Contractions
Labor contractions are regular, intensifying uterine contractions that cause cervical change and signal true labor.
Contraction timing
Labor timing is tracking contraction patterns and related changes to understand labor progression and when to contact a care team.
Contraindication
A contraindication is a condition or circumstance in which a medication should not be used because its potential harm is unacceptable.
Controlled choices
A parenting approach where adults keep a health or safety boundary while giving the child limited choices within it.
controlled cord traction
A procedure that uses gentle pulling on the umbilical cord to help deliver the placenta.
controlling behavior
A repeated pattern in which one child uses pressure to shape what another child says, does, shares, or believes in a friendship.
Conversational turn-taking
A social skill in which children wait for their turn and let others act in an agreed order.
convertible crib
A convertible crib is a crib designed to change into later bed types, such as a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed.
Cooing
Cooing is an early infant vocal stage involving soft, vowel-like sounds often produced during relaxed social interaction.
cooperative play
Play in which children work together toward a shared goal while practicing communication, turn-taking, problem-solving, and repair after conflict.
Coordination of benefits
Coordination of benefits determines how multiple health plans share responsibility for paying a person’s covered medical bills.
Co-parenting
A shared parenting arrangement after a romantic relationship ends, focused on dividing baby care, decisions, and responsibilities.
Copayment
A copay is a fixed dollar amount a patient pays for a covered healthcare service.
coping skills
Strategies children use to manage distress and get through difficult feelings or situations.
Cord prolapse
An emergency in which the umbilical cord descends ahead of the fetus during labor or before birth.
Core body temperature
Core body temperature is the temperature inside the body that best reflects how warm someone truly is.
co-regulation
Caregiver support that helps a child calm, name feelings, breathe, move, or use sensory tools before self-regulating independently.
Core Strength
Trunk stability is the ability to control the head and torso, creating a steady base for reaching, rotating, and shifting weight.
Corpus luteum
The corpus luteum is temporary ovarian tissue that produces progesterone after ovulation and helps support the early pregnancy.
Corrected age
Corrected age is an age adjustment clinicians may use when considering developmental expectations for babies born before their due date.
Corrective feedback
Corrective feedback is guidance that addresses a child’s behavior or work and gives clear, specific steps for improvement.
cortisol
Cortisol is a normal hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune function, and fetal development during pregnancy.
Cost per wear
Cost per wear is the purchase price divided by how many times an item is expected to be used.
Counterpressure
A double hip squeeze is inward pressure on both sides of the pelvis during contractions for labor comfort.
COVID-19 vaccine
A vaccine that helps prevent COVID-19 and is recommended during pregnancy.
Co-viewing
Co-viewing is watching or using media with a child while an adult helps interpret content and connect it to real-world learning.
Cow's milk protein intolerance
Cow's milk protein intolerance is a reaction to milk proteins that can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammation in some babies.
Cradle cap
A skin condition that causes greasy scaling, especially on the scalp and nearby areas.
Cradle hold
A small infant sleep bed similar to a bassinet, generally intended for early use and subject to product-specific limits.
cramping
Mild uterine or pelvic discomfort that can occur as the uterus and supporting ligaments adapt during early pregnancy.
Crawling
Crawling is a form of infant mobility in which babies move across the floor using coordinated support and movement from their limbs.
creative expression
Creative expression is the use of art, crafts, music, or movement to communicate ideas, feelings, and experiences.
creativity
The ability to generate original and useful ideas through imagination, curiosity, and flexible thinking.
Credential stuffing
A cyberattack where exposed login details are tried on other websites or accounts.
Credential theft
Credential theft is when someone tries to steal login information through fake offers, links, quizzes, or other deceptive requests.
Crib mattress
A crib mattress is a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly inside a crib to provide a safe infant sleep surface.
Criterion
A criterion is one specific feature of work that is considered when evaluating an assignment or determining performance.
Critical period
A critical period is a developmental window when forming fetal organs or body systems may be especially sensitive to harmful influences.
Cross-contamination
Cross-contamination is the transfer of germs from one surface, object, or food item to another.
Cross-cradle hold
The cross-cradle hold uses the arm opposite the feeding side to support the baby’s shoulders and skull while guiding the baby toward the breast.
Crosswalk
A marked place where pedestrians cross a road, designed to make crossing locations more predictable for children and drivers.
Crotch strap
A crotch strap is a restraint strap between a child's legs that helps prevent sliding out beneath a tray.
Croup
Croup is a common childhood respiratory illness involving swelling of the upper airway that causes a barking cough and sometimes noisy breathing.
Crowning
Crowning occurs when the baby's head remains visible at the vaginal opening as it passes through the stretched tissues.
Crown-rump length
Crown-to-rump length measures an embryo or fetus from the top of the head to the bottom of the torso.
Cruising
Cruising is a developmental movement in which a baby moves sideways while holding onto furniture for support.
Cry curve
The cry curve is the typical pattern in which infant crying rises during early weeks, peaks around six to eight weeks, then gradually declines.
Crying during pregnancy
Crying during pregnancy is an emotional stress response that is usually not harmful when occasional and self-limited.
Cryptic pregnancy
A cryptic pregnancy is an uncommon pregnancy that remains unrecognized because typical symptoms are absent, subtle, misinterpreted, or falsely reassured by testing.
Cue cards
Cue cards are brief, organized notes with keywords that prompt a speaker’s memory instead of reproducing the full presentation.
Curatorship
Curatorship means intentionally choosing, organizing, and reflecting on media instead of only consuming automatically selected content.
Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the lips, tongue, or skin caused by inadequate oxygenation and requiring emergency evaluation.
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is harmful online behavior that shames, threatens, ridicules, or repeatedly targets someone through shared digital content or messages.
D
Dampness
Excess moisture in a building caused by problems such as leaks, condensation, flooding, or inadequate drainage.
Data minimization
Data minimization means sharing or collecting only the personal information necessary for a specific safety, removal, or support purpose.
Daytime sleepiness
Unusual tiredness or sleepiness during the day caused by poor or disrupted sleep.
Decaffeinated
A drink or product with most of its caffeine removed, though some caffeine may still remain.
decaffeinated tea
Tea with most of its caffeine removed, though it can still contain a small amount.
Decision fatigue
Decision fatigue is reduced mental capacity that makes ordinary choices and caregiving tasks feel more complex after prolonged stress or activity.
Decision-making capacity
The ability to make meaningful medical decisions, including accepting or refusing care, when conscious and able to understand choices.
Decision-to-birth interval
The decision-to-birth interval is the time between deciding that birth should occur and the baby’s actual birth.
Decompression
A recovery period after school or activities that gives a child’s nervous system time to calm before evening demands.
Decontamination
The cleaning and disinfection process used after care to make rooms, equipment, and surfaces safe for the next patient.
Deductible
A deductible is the amount a person or family pays for eligible covered services before insurance begins sharing costs.
Deemed newborn eligibility
Deemed newborn eligibility allows a baby born to an enrolled mother to receive Medicaid without submitting a separate application.
Deemed newborn Medicaid coverage
Deemed newborn Medicaid coverage provides automatic or simplified Medicaid protection for eligible babies when the birthing parent had Medicaid at delivery.
Deep latch
A deep latch is a breastfeeding attachment in which the baby takes a wide mouthful of breast tissue and feeds with effective tongue positioning.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when a child lacks enough fluid, with warning signs including fewer wet diapers, reduced urination, or concerning appearance.
Dehydration signs in babies
Dehydration signs in babies are warning changes such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, and low energy.
Deictic gesture
A deliberate gesture used to direct another person's attention or communicate a request before or alongside speech.
Delayed cord clamping
Delayed cord clamping means waiting briefly after birth, commonly at least 30–60 seconds, before clamping and cutting the cord.
Delayed labor after rupture of membranes
Delayed labor after rupture of membranes means regular contractions do not begin promptly after the waters have broken.
Delayed tooth eruption
Delayed tooth eruption is when a tooth has formed but emerges through the gum later than expected.
Delayed tooth formation
Delayed tooth formation is when a tooth develops later than expected or may not form normally.
Delivery route
A delivery route is the planned or actual method used to give birth, such as vaginal, assisted vaginal, or cesarean birth.
Density
A measure of how much mass is packed into a given volume, which helps explain why some liquids layer instead of mixing.
Dental caries
Early childhood caries is tooth decay in young children that can damage newly erupted primary teeth and irritate nearby tissue.
depersonalization
A feeling of detachment from your body or self, as though your body belongs to someone else.
Depression
Low mood is a reduced or persistently negative emotional state that may affect interest, energy, concentration, relationships, sleep, or school performance.
Depression during pregnancy
A depressive condition during pregnancy that may involve persistent low mood, hopelessness, tearfulness, or loss of interest.
derealization
A feeling that surroundings or other people are unreal, dreamlike, distant, flat, or visually strange.
Descriptive praise
Process praise gives accurate, specific feedback about a child’s actions or strategies rather than praising ability or outcomes broadly.
Developmental Asymmetry
Infant movement asymmetry is a persistent difference in how a baby moves or uses one side of the body.
Developmental care
Newborn care that adjusts lighting, noise, handling, and sleep routines to support an infant’s developing nervous system.
Developmental delay
A persistent concern in areas such as communication, learning, attention, motor skills, behavior, or social participation.
Developmental dysplasia of the hip
Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a condition in which an infant’s developing hip joint has abnormal positioning or stability.
Developmental leap
A noticeable period when a baby begins combining emerging abilities after repeated practice and gradual maturation.
Developmentally appropriate
Suitable for a child’s current age, abilities, and stage of development without being too easy or too hard.
developmental milestones
The growth of children’s abilities over time, including impulse control, flexibility, independence, and emotional regulation.
Developmental plateau
A developmental plateau is when a child stops gaining expected new skills while previously learned skills remain present.
Developmental play
Developmental play is simple, shared interaction during caregiving that supports learning while respecting a child's comfort and abilities.
Developmental readiness
Developmental maturity describes a child’s readiness to manage the academic, social, communication, and emotional demands of a learning setting.
Developmental regression
Developmental regression is the loss of previously acquired developmental skills, such as language, communication, movement, or daily abilities.
Developmental screening
A structured check of whether a child is meeting expected milestones in areas such as language, play, learning, and social interaction.
developmental surveillance
Developmental surveillance is ongoing monitoring of a child’s growth, behavior, and social functioning over time.
Developmental toy
A toy that encourages age-appropriate learning through active play, movement, sensory exploration, or interaction.
Developmental variation
Developmental variation means children may develop different abilities at different rates, with strengths in one area and support needs in another.
deviancy training
A process in which children reinforce or escalate each other’s disruptive or risky behavior.
Deviant peer association
Repeated contact with peers who normalize rule breaking, aggression, dishonesty, or other risky behavior.
device validation
A parenting approach that acknowledges and names a child's feelings while maintaining a necessary boundary or expectation.
Devitalized tissue
Tissue that is no longer supplied by the body’s circulation and can dry out and separate naturally.
Diabetic ketoacidosis
A dangerous diabetes emergency caused by severe insulin lack and buildup of acids called ketones.
Diaper area
The skin covered by a diaper, which needs frequent cleaning because moisture, stool, urine, heat, and friction can irritate it.
Diaper change
The process of changing and cleaning a baby’s diaper area to remove stool and urine and limit germ spread.
Diaper dermatitis
Diaper dermatitis is an inflammatory rash in the diaper area caused by moisture, irritants, and friction.
Diaper output
Diaper output is the pattern of an infant’s wet and soiled diapers used with other information to assess intake and hydration.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen and is involved in breathing and hiccup reflexes.
Diaphragmatic breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing is slow, gentle breathing that uses the diaphragm and lengthens the exhale to reduce physiological arousal.
Diarrhea
Loose, watery, or more frequent stools than normal.
Diastasis recti
Diastasis recti is a widening of the connective tissue between the abdominal muscles, which can cause abdominal bulging or weakness after pregnancy.
Dichorionic diamniotic twins
Dichorionic diamniotic twins each have their own placenta and their own amniotic sac.
Differential treatment
Unequal parent behavior toward children that can create resentment when siblings feel compared or labeled differently.
Differentiated instruction
Differentiated instruction adapts teaching methods, tasks, or difficulty levels to match students’ individual learning needs.
Diffusion of responsibility
Diffusion of responsibility occurs when each adult assumes someone else is watching, creating an unsafe gap in supervision.
Digital consent
Online consent is permission to capture or share someone’s image, message, or information for a specific audience or purpose.
Digital Footprint
A digital footprint is the lasting trail of posts, images, usernames, comments, and data a child leaves online.
Digital habits
Patterns of how, when, why, and with whom a child uses screens or digital media.
digital health literacy
The ability to use digital health tools and understand the information they provide.
Digital permanence
Digital permanence means online content may continue to exist as copies even after deletion or disappearance from an app.
Digital privacy
Online privacy is the expectation and practice of controlling who can see, download, tag, or reshare personal digital information.
Digital reputation
The public and semi-public impression of a teen created by their online posts, interactions, profiles, and data trails.
Digital stress
Emotional or physical strain linked to online conflict, reputation worries, social comparison, or constant digital monitoring.
Digital thermometer
A digital thermometer is an electronic device used to measure body temperature and help observe whether a baby may have a fever.
disagreement
Disagreements between children over toys, rules, teasing, exclusion, fairness, or status as they learn to get along in groups.
Disaster recovery
Disaster recovery is the physical and emotional process of restoring routines, services, supplies, and a child’s sense of control after a storm.
Discharge instructions
Written or verbal guidance given before leaving care that explains recovery steps, activity limits, warning symptoms, and who to contact.
Discharge letter
A written or electronic summary of the birth, hospital course, medications, warning signs, follow-up, and care contacts after discharge.
Discharge planning
Planning before leaving hospital to identify clinical milestones, practical barriers, follow-up needs, and support for a safe transition home.
Disclosure
Telling a trusted adult what happened, including after a child has replied to, clicked, or shared something with a contact.
Discordant results
Discordant results are test results that do not agree with each other or with the clinical picture.
Discrimination
Unfair or harmful treatment related to characteristics such as disability, race, religion, sex, gender, language, or appearance.
dislocation
An injury in which a bone is forced out of its normal position in a joint.
Disorganized attachment
Disorganized attachment is a pattern marked by contradictory, fearful, frozen, confused, or apprehensive behavior toward a caregiver under stress.
Dissociation
Dissociation is a disruption in the usual integration of awareness, memory, identity, bodily sensation, or surroundings.
Distracted feeding
Distracted feeding occurs when a baby shifts attention away from eating toward environmental sounds, movement, people, objects, or internal sensations.
Diuresis
Diuresis is increased urination as the body gets rid of extra fluid after pregnancy and birth.
divergent thinking
The ability to generate multiple possible ideas or uses instead of following one fixed answer.
Docosahexaenoic acid
An omega-3 fatty acid that supports fetal brain and retinal development during pregnancy.
Dog bite
A dog bite is an injury caused by a dog’s teeth and may occur even with a familiar, well-loved family pet.
Dog body language
Dog body language is communication through posture, movement, facial expression, vocalization, and other physical signals.
Door safety
A set of routines that helps children respond to visitors without opening the door, sharing information, or facing unsafe situations.
Doppler fetal monitor
A Doppler fetal monitor is a handheld device clinicians may use to listen to the fetal heart rate during labor.
Dose-response relationship
A pattern in which a greater exposure is associated with a greater chance of an outcome.
Douching
Douching is washing inside the vagina with water or products, an unnecessary practice that may irritate tissue and disrupt the normal environment.
Doula
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous practical and emotional support during labor and birth.
Down syndrome
A chromosomal condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
Drop-side crib
A drop-side crib is a crib design with a movable side rail that can fail dangerously and is not permitted under current U.S. safety standards.
Drowning
Drowning is a life-threatening event that can occur when a person cannot keep their airway above water, even in shallow water.
Drowsy but awake
A sleep-settling approach in which a fed and comfortable baby is placed down sleepy but still awake.
Dry cord care
A newborn care approach that keeps the umbilical stump clean, dry, and exposed to air so it can heal naturally.
Dual-sided mattress
A mattress with separate surfaces designed for different developmental stages, such as a firmer infant side and a toddler side.
durable medical equipment
Medical equipment designed for repeated use, often delivered and set up at home for recovery, monitoring, or mobility support.
Dural puncture
A dural puncture is an unintended opening in the membrane around the spinal fluid that can cause a positional headache after an epidural.
Dural puncture epidural
A dural puncture epidural is an epidural technique used to improve medication spread while keeping the medicine in the epidural space.
Dyadic coping
A way of coping in which two partners manage stress together and adjust to each other’s needs.
Dysgraphia
A learning-related condition in which written language is much harder to produce than spoken or understood language.
E
ear canal
The ear canal is the delicate passage inside the ear where wax is produced and should not be probed at home.
Ear drainage
Ear drainage is fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear and may suggest an ear problem rather than teething.
eardrum
The tympanic membrane is the eardrum, the thin structure in front of the middle ear that clinicians examine for infection signs.
Eardrum perforation
An eardrum perforation is a hole or tear in the eardrum that can occur after injury from objects inserted into the ear.
Ear infection
An ear infection is inflammation or infection in or around the ear that may cause pain, fever, discharge, swelling, or redness.
Early breastfeeding
Breastfeeding initiation is the beginning of breastfeeding, ideally within the first hour after birth when parent and newborn are medically stable.
Early breastfeeding initiation
Early breastfeeding initiation means helping a newborn begin breastfeeding during the first hour after birth when medically appropriate.
Early development
Early development is the period when infants and young children acquire motor, language, cognitive, social-emotional, and self-regulation skills.
Early discharge
Leaving the maternity unit sooner than the usual postnatal stay while still meeting agreed clinical safety criteria.
Early feeding
Early feeding is feeding support soon after birth to assess alertness, latch, suck, swallowing, and newborn adaptation.
early intervention services
Early intervention services are support services that can help a child develop while additional evaluation is still underway.
early literacy
The early skills that support later reading, including vocabulary, story understanding, and connecting spoken language with print.
Early morning waking
Waking well before the desired morning time and not being able to fall back asleep.
early satiety
Feeling full sooner than expected after eating only a small amount of food.
Early term
A pregnancy lasting from 37 weeks 0 days through 38 weeks 6 days, before the full-term window begins.
Early warning system
An early warning system combines multiple clinical observations to help care teams recognize concerning patterns and possible deterioration.
Ear pain
Ear pain is discomfort or pressure in the ear that babies may show through crying, sleep trouble, or feeding difficulty.
ear pressure
Ear pressure is discomfort from changing cabin pressure that can affect the middle ear during airplane ascent and descent.
Ear pulling
Ear pulling is when a baby tugs or rubs the ear, which may signal discomfort but can also have non-infection causes.
earwax
Earwax is a protective substance made in the ear canal that traps debris, moisture, dust, and microorganisms.
Eating for two
A common pregnancy phrase that misleadingly suggests doubling food intake instead of focusing on nutrient-rich eating.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images that show the structure and function of the heart.
Eclampsia
Eclampsia is a serious seizure condition in pregnancy or postpartum that may require magnesium sulfate treatment.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in a fallopian tube.
Eczema flare
A period when eczema symptoms worsen after being calmer, often due to irritation or triggers.
edema
Swelling caused by fluid buildup in body tissues, commonly affecting the ankles and feet during pregnancy.
Effleurage
Effleurage is light, repetitive stroking over areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, or back during labor.
Elective cesarean
A planned C-section is a cesarean birth scheduled in advance when vaginal birth may carry medical risks.
Elective induction
A planned labor induction chosen without an urgent medical indication, usually after counseling in selected low-risk pregnancies.
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium that help regulate body fluids and support essential physiological functions.
elimination diet
A short-term diet that removes certain foods to help identify or reduce symptom triggers.
Elopement
Wandering is moving away from supervision without fully understanding danger or being able to explain the reason for leaving.
Embryo
The early developing stage after fertilization, when rapidly dividing cells begin forming the body's structures.
Embryonic period
The embryonic period is the early stage of development before week 9, when the basic body plan and organs are forming.
Emergency
An emergency is a situation involving immediate danger or a need for urgent medical help from trained responders.
Emergency action plan
An emergency action plan outlines how a sports program responds to injuries, medical emergencies, communication needs, and emergency services.
Emergency care
Emergency medical care is immediate local assessment and treatment for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Emergency contact card
A portable card listing a child’s identity, medical information, emergency contacts, and location details for caregivers during an emergency.
Emergency Contact Plan
A structured plan listing medical, household, transportation, and backup contacts for managing urgent situations during labor and after birth.
Emergency department
A hospital unit that evaluates and treats potentially serious symptoms requiring examination, monitoring, or emergency medical resources.
Emergency dispatcher
An emergency dispatcher receives calls, asks for important information, and guides callers while help is being sent.
Emergency drill
A brief, calm practice in which family members rehearse reaching the shelter and following protective actions before severe weather occurs.
Emergency exception
A legal and ethical basis for urgent care when a patient cannot meaningfully decide and delay could cause serious harm.
Emergency kit
An emergency kit is a portable collection of food, water, medications, documents, comfort items, and other essential supplies.
Emergency Medical Information Sheet
A concise document containing essential medical, pregnancy, medication, allergy, and contact information for rapid sharing during an emergency.
Emergency medical services
Emergency services provide immediate professional assistance through responders such as paramedics, firefighters, or police.
Emergency number
9-1-1 is an emergency telephone number used in many areas to request immediate help from emergency services.
Emergency obstetric care
Emergency obstetric care is rapid maternity care given when urgent maternal or fetal problems make delay risky.
Emergency preparedness
Hurricane preparedness is advance planning and supplies that help families reduce danger and maintain children’s care during a storm.
Emergency response
A planned sequence of actions for moving away from danger, contacting help, and following instructions during an emergency.
Emergency shelter
A storm shelter is a sturdy enclosed place designed to protect people from severe weather, tornado winds, and flying debris.
Emollient
A moisturizing product that helps soothe dry skin and support the skin barrier.
Emotional burnout
A state of caregiver exhaustion that can make setting limits and managing family conflict harder.
Emotional labor
Emotional labor is the work of recognizing, discussing, and managing caregivers' emotional needs during early parenthood.
Emotional neglect
Emotional neglect is a persistent failure to notice, understand, or adequately respond to a child’s emotional and developmental needs.
emotional numbness
A reduced ability to feel or access emotions, often occurring as a response to overwhelming stress, trauma, or fear.
Emotional overeating
Eating in response to stress or emotion rather than physical hunger.
Emotional readiness
The ability to manage anxiety, stress, and minor changes well enough to follow a planned route and seek help.
Emotional recovery
The gradual process of healing after a loss or painful experience so emotions become easier to manage over time.
emotional regulation
Emotional regulation is a child’s ability to manage feelings, stress, and reactions without becoming overwhelmed or dysregulated.
Emotional support
Empathy, validation, and steady presence that help a person feel heard and less alone during labor or recovery.
Emotional suppression
A stress response pattern involving suppression, denial, disengagement, or avoidance that can prolong emotional and physical stress.
Emotional tears
Emotional tears are tears shed in response to feelings such as grief, stress, relief, empathy, joy, or meaningful social experiences.
emotion coaching
A way of helping children name and manage feelings while setting clear limits on hurtful behavior.
emotion labeling
The practice of naming feelings so a child can better understand and manage them.
Emotion Work
Emotion work is the deliberate management of feelings to function, remain safe, and cope during labor and birth.
Employer-Sponsored Health Plan
A health insurance plan offered through an employer, with enrollment typically handled by the employer's benefits office or plan administrator.
Empowerment
A sense of being informed, respected, capable of expressing preferences, and actively involved in decisions during childbirth and care.
endocrine disruptor
An endocrine disruptor is a substance that can interfere with the body's hormone signaling and may be a concern during pregnancy.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a medical condition identified in the article as a possible concern affecting fertility and requiring medical advice.
Endorphins
Natural chemicals that help reduce pain and may support a trance-like focus during labor.
energy density
Energy density is how many calories a food provides in a given amount, often with less nutrition per bite.
Engorgement
Engorgement is painful breast fullness that can occur when milk is not removed regularly or sufficiently.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery is a structured care pathway using measures such as early mobilization to improve recovery and reduce complications and hospital stays.
Entanglement hazard
An entanglement hazard is a cord, tie, or loose clothing feature that can catch around an infant or on nearby equipment.
Enteral nutrition
Tube feeding delivers milk through a tube when a newborn cannot yet feed safely or effectively by mouth.
Enteric-coated medicine
An enteric-coated medicine has a protective coating that prevents release in the stomach and controls where the drug dissolves.
Entrapment
Entrapment is a safety hazard in which a child becomes caught in a gap or space and cannot get free.
Environmental stressors in pregnancy
Environmental stressors in pregnancy are social, physical, or chemical exposures that may affect well-being and readiness for birth.
Epidermis
The epidermis is the skin's outer layer, which includes the stratum corneum at its surface.
Epidural analgesia
Neuraxial analgesia reduces labor pain through medication delivered near the nerves while allowing the patient to remain awake.
epidural catheter
A small tube placed in the epidural space to deliver pain medicine during labor.
Epidural space
The space in the lower back where an epidural catheter is placed to deliver pain medicine during labor.
epigenetics
Epigenetic regulation involves chemical and cellular processes that influence whether genes are activated or silenced without changing DNA.
Episiotomy
An episiotomy is a surgical cut made at the vaginal opening during birth when clinically needed.
ergonomics
Ergonomics means arranging the body, screen, furniture, and tools to reduce strain during device use.
Eruption cyst
An eruption cyst is a fluid-filled, sometimes blood-tinged swelling over a tooth that is about to emerge.
Erythema toxicum neonatorum
Erythema toxicum neonatorum is a benign newborn rash with blotchy red patches and tiny bumps or pustules in the first days of life.
Erythropoiesis
The biological process of producing red blood cells, which requires adequate iron and supports healthy blood formation.
Esophagus
The muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach, where a lodged button battery can produce serious chemical and electrical injury.
Essential tremor
A tremor disorder that can cause rhythmic head movement, sometimes appearing as yes-yes or no-no motion.
Estimated fetal weight
An ultrasound-based estimate of how much the fetus weighs.
estrogen
A group of hormones that support growth, blood vessel changes, and later preparation for birth and breastfeeding.
Eustachian tube
The eustachian tube is a drainage passage from the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat.
Evacuation
Evacuation is the prompt movement of people away from a dangerous area to a safer destination or shelter.
Evaporation
The process in which a liquid slowly turns into vapor and disappears from a surface.
Evaporative heat loss
Evaporative heat loss occurs when moisture on the skin turns into vapor, lowering body temperature as heat leaves the body.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is a supplement promoted for cervical ripening before induction, with weak evidence and safety concerns.
Evidence-informed decision-making
A structured process of finding, evaluating, and applying evidence alongside the clinical context and perspectives of people affected by a decision.
executive function
Executive function is a set of thinking skills that helps children pause, control impulses, assess risk, and make decisions.
Expectation violation
A violations-of-expectation experiment studies infants' understanding by measuring whether they look longer at events that seem physically impossible.
expected week of childbirth
The week a pregnancy is expected to end in birth, used to anchor maternity leave timing and planning.
Experimental design
The process of planning a test by changing one thing at a time and comparing the result.
Explanation of benefits
An explanation of benefits is an insurer document summarizing how a healthcare claim was processed and what the patient may owe.
Exploratory play
Exploration is how babies learn about their bodies, people, and surroundings through looking, listening, moving, touching, and mouthing safe objects.
Expressed Milk
Expressed breast milk is milk removed from the breast and stored or transported for feeding a baby later.
Expressing milk
Expressing milk is removing breast milk by hand or pump so it can be stored and fed later.
Expressive language
The language a child uses to express thoughts, needs, and feelings with words, gestures, or writing.
Extension
Extension is the normal backward tipping of the baby’s head as it passes under the pubic arch and is born.
Extension request
An extension request is a respectful appeal for additional time to complete a task while proposing a realistic date and accepting responsibility.
External cephalic version
External cephalic version is a procedure performed before labor to turn a fetus into a head-down position.
Externalizing behaviors
Outward-facing behavior concerns such as inattention, impulsivity, oppositionality, aggression, or emotional outbursts.
extracurricular activities
Organized experiences outside the core academic timetable, such as sports, music, arts, clubs, volunteering, and student leadership.
extracurricular activity overload
A pattern in which extracurricular commitments consistently displace sleep, meals, recovery, schoolwork, or other basic needs.
Extremely low birth weight
Extremely low birth weight describes a newborn weighing less than 1,000 grams at birth and often requiring complex medical and nutritional care.
eye contact
Eye contact is looking directly toward another person, but it need not be continuous and may feel uncomfortable or distracting for some children.
Eye discharge
Fluid, crust, or mucus-like material that collects around a baby's eye, especially near the inner corner or lashes.
Eye misalignment
Eye misalignment is when the eyes do not line up or work together as expected.
Eye strain
Digital eye strain is eye discomfort from prolonged screen viewing, often involving tired, dry, watery, or blurry eyes and headaches.
F
Face recognition
The developing ability to notice, remember, and identify familiar faces, which becomes more reliable across infancy.
Facility charge
A facility charge is a fee from a hospital or other care setting that may be added separately to professional clinician fees.
Facility directory
A hospital listing that may allow limited disclosure of a patient’s location and general condition if the patient has not objected.
Fading support
Fading support is the gradual reduction of adult prompts and assistance as a child becomes able to complete a task independently.
Failed induction
A clinical term for induction that does not lead to active labor despite appropriate attempts to prepare the cervix and stimulate contractions.
Failure to rescue
A missed or delayed recognition of clinical deterioration that prevents timely treatment or transfer to higher care.
Fainting
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness that should be reported promptly during labor or recovery.
Fake coughing
A cough-like sound that may come from infant vocal play, imitation, attention seeking, or discomfort rather than airway irritation.
Fake giveaway
A fake giveaway is a deceptive prize offer designed to make children click, share information, pay, or download something unsafe.
Falls
Falls are injuries caused by accidentally dropping from one level to another, often involving stairs, windows, furniture, or elevated surfaces.
False positive
A screening result that suggests a possible condition even though follow-up testing ultimately shows the baby does not have it.
False-positive rate
A false-positive rate describes how often a test or monitoring pattern looks concerning when no serious problem is present.
false reassurance
A misleading sense of safety when a result looks normal but a problem is still developing.
Family-centered cesarean
A family-centered cesarean adapts surgical birth to support experiences such as skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, and viewing the birth.
Family-centered neonatal care
Family-centered neonatal care is an approach that includes parents in communication, decisions, and appropriate hands-on care of their newborn.
Family code word
A private phrase shared with trusted adults to verify unusual requests about travel, money, school pickup, or changes of plan.
Family dynamics
The repeated interaction patterns within a family that shape connection, conflict, routines, and emotional climate.
Family media plan
A family agreement or routine for managing technology use, privacy habits, and wellbeing check-ins.
Family reunification plan
A family reunification plan identifies meeting places and contacts to help caregivers and children reconnect after separation during an emergency.
Family safety plan
A short set of family safety instructions covering actions, meeting places, contacts, and support during an emergency.
Family-school communication
Family-school communication is the two-way sharing of information between families and educators about a child’s learning, needs, strengths, and supports.
Fascia
Fascia is a strong layer of connective tissue that covers the abdominal muscles and helps support the abdominal wall.
Fasting
Fasting is not eating or drinking calories for a set period before a medical test.
fatigue
Intense tiredness in early pregnancy caused by hormonal changes, increased blood volume, sleep disruption, and placental development.
Fear extinction
Fear extinction is the gradual reduction of a learned fear response when an expected catastrophe does not occur.
Fear of childbirth
Tokophobia is severe fear of childbirth that can affect daily functioning, pregnancy care, or decisions about labor and birth.
fecal-oral route
A way germs spread when contaminated material from feces is accidentally swallowed.
Fecundability
Fecundability is the probability of becoming pregnant during a single menstrual cycle.
Feedback loop
A feedback loop occurs when a person's behavior influences later recommendations, which then encourage similar behavior and strengthen the system's predictions.
Feeding aversion
Strong reluctance or refusal to eat that can develop after painful, stressful, or repeatedly difficult feeding experiences.
Feeding difficulty
Feeding difficulty involves problems taking adequate nourishment, such as tiring, choking, coughing, prolonged feeds, or poor swallowing coordination.
Feeding regression
Feeding regression is a noticeable backward change in a baby's established feeding pattern, such as taking less milk or refusing previously accepted foods.
Feeding stress cues
Behavioral or physical signals that a baby is overwhelmed, fatigued, or needs less stimulation.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is an herb traditionally used as a galactagogue, though evidence for increasing milk production is limited and adverse effects are possible.
Ferguson reflex
The Ferguson reflex is the involuntary urge to push caused by the fetal head pressing on pelvic tissues.
Fertile window
The fertile window is the period when intercourse is most likely to result in pregnancy around ovulation.
Fertility evaluation
A fertility evaluation assesses ovulation, semen parameters, and reproductive anatomy to clarify possible causes of delayed conception.
Fetal anemia
A condition in which the fetus has too few red blood cells or insufficient hemoglobin to carry oxygen effectively.
Fetal bradycardia
An abnormally slow fetal heart rate that can indicate reduced oxygen delivery and require urgent assessment during labor.
fetal development
The growth and maturation of a developing baby, including organ formation, sensory development, movement, and weight gain.
Fetal echocardiogram
A fetal echocardiogram is a detailed ultrasound examination of a developing baby’s heart structure and function.
Fetal ejection reflex
A strong, often involuntary urge to bear down that can happen during labor as the baby descends.
Fetal fraction
The proportion of fetal DNA in a blood sample, which can affect how reliable an NIPT result is.
fetal growth restriction
Fetal growth restriction is a condition in which a fetus is smaller than expected because growth has not progressed normally.
Fetal head position
The way the baby's head is oriented in the pelvis, usually described by which direction the occiput faces.
Fetal heart rate
The baby’s heartbeat during labor, which clinicians monitor because concerning patterns can affect pushing decisions.
Fetal heart rate abnormality
An unusual fetal heart rate pattern that can signal the baby is under stress during labor.
Fetal heart rate deceleration
A temporary slowing of the fetal heart rate, interpreted in relation to contractions and clinical context.
Fetal macrosomia
Fetal macrosomia means a baby is estimated to have a high weight for their gestational age.
Fetal malposition
Head lag is backward or unstable head movement when an infant is gently brought from lying down toward a sitting position.
Fetal malpresentation
A fetal position other than the usual head-down presentation that can complicate labor or make vaginal birth unsafe.
Fetal monitoring
Fetal heart rate monitoring evaluates how a fetus responds during labor by tracking its heart rate pattern.
Fetal movement
Fetal movement is movement made by the developing fetus, which may become noticeable to a pregnant person around mid-pregnancy.
Fetal period
The fetal period is the stage of pregnancy that begins around week 9, when growth and maturation become the main focus.
Fetal position
Fetal position describes how the fetus is oriented inside the uterus, such as head-down, breech, transverse, anterior, or posterior.
Fetal presentation
Fetal presentation is the part of the baby that is positioned to enter the pelvis first during birth.
Fetal rotation
Fetal rotation is the baby’s movement into a different orientation as the cervix dilates and the head descends through the pelvis.
Fetal scalp electrode
A fetal scalp electrode is an internal monitor used after membranes rupture to measure fetal heart rate more directly.
Fetal sex
Fetal sex refers to biological characteristics, including chromosomes or genital anatomy, used to describe a fetus as male or female.
Fetal station
Fetal station describes how high or low the presenting fetal part is relative to the maternal pelvis.
Fetal viability
Viability is the possibility that a fetus could survive outside the uterus with intensive neonatal medical care.
Fetomaternal hemorrhage
Fetomaternal hemorrhage occurs when fetal blood cells enter the pregnant person’s bloodstream.
Fetoscope
A fetoscope is a tool clinicians may use to listen to the fetal heart rate during intermittent monitoring.
fetus
A fetus is the developing baby after the embryo stage, typically referring to development from about 9 or 10 weeks onward.
Fever during pregnancy
Fever during pregnancy is an elevated body temperature while pregnant, often caused by infection and requiring closer medical attention.
Fiber
A plant nutrient that helps bowel regularity and makes fruit more filling.
Fine motor skills
Fine-motor skills are coordinated small-muscle movements used for tasks such as writing, cutting, fastening clothing, and handling objects.
Finger foods
Finger foods are appropriately prepared pieces of soft food that a child can grasp, explore, and bring to the mouth independently.
Firearm safety
Firearm safety requires firearms to be unloaded, locked, stored separately from ammunition, and accessible only to authorized adults.
Fire escape plan
A practiced plan identifying exits and a meeting place for leaving home safely during a fire or smoke emergency.
first bath
A baby's initial bath after birth, which may be delayed when clinically appropriate.
First hour after birth
The golden hour is the protected early period after birth for newborn adaptation, clinical observation, parent contact, and feeding support.
First stage of labor
The first stage of labor extends from established labor until the cervix reaches full dilatation.
First trimester
The first stage of pregnancy, covering conception through 13 weeks and 6 days of gestation.
First word
A first word is a consistent, intentional vocalization that refers to a person, object, action, or social routine.
Fistula
A fistula is an abnormal connection between two adjacent organs or body structures caused by tissue damage.
Flexion
Flexion is a labor movement in which the baby’s chin tucks toward the chest to help the head fit through the pelvis.
Floodwater
Floodwater is water covering normally dry land that may contain sewage, chemicals, sharp debris, and infectious hazards.
Fluid balance
The relationship between fluid intake and fluid losses that can affect an infant’s weight and hydration status.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral applied to teeth to provide topical protection and help limit acid-related tooth decay.
Flying debris
Flying debris consists of objects carried or thrown by tornado winds, creating a major risk of cuts, impacts, and other injuries.
Foam mattress
A crib mattress made primarily from foam, typically offering a lighter construction that is easier to lift during cleaning.
Folate
A form of folate important before conception and in early pregnancy for neural tube development.
Fontanelle
A fontanelle is a soft area between an infant’s skull bones that may appear sunken when the infant is dehydrated.
food allergy
An unusually strong immune response to a medicine that can cause swelling, hives, wheezing, faintness, or breathing difficulty.
Food aversion
A strong disgust or inability to tolerate a food, often triggered by smell, taste, texture, or nausea.
food aversions
Strong dislike or rejection of certain foods, often seen in early pregnancy and sometimes linked with cravings.
Foodborne illness
An illness caused by germs or parasites in contaminated food, which can be more serious during pregnancy.
Foodborne pathogens
Foodborne pathogens are harmful microorganisms in food that can cause illness when contaminated food is eaten.
Food-drug interaction
A food-drug interaction occurs when food or drink changes how a medicine is absorbed, stabilized, or works.
food insecurity
Uncertainty about whether a household will have enough food, enough variety, and enough money or time to get it consistently.
Food parenting practices
The ways caregivers structure and respond to children’s eating at meals and snacks.
Food processor
A kitchen appliance that cuts, blends, or pulses ingredients and is useful for preparing larger batches and varied food textures.
Food refusal
Food refusal is when a baby declines offered food, often temporarily because of unfamiliarity, discomfort, appetite, or feeding readiness.
Food responsiveness
The tendency to notice food cues strongly and feel driven to eat when food is available.
Food safety
Procedures that keep food safe through hygienic preparation, temperature control, allergen awareness, and clean equipment.
food thermometer
A tool used to measure a food’s internal temperature to confirm it has reached a safe level.
Football hold
A football hold is a position that places a baby's body along the caregiver's side under the arm while supporting the head.
Footling breech
Footling breech is a breech position where one or both of the baby’s feet are positioned to come first.
Forceful let-down
Forceful let-down is a fast milk ejection during breastfeeding that can make a baby gulp, cough, or swallow air.
Forearm hold
The colic hold places an awake baby face-down along the caregiver’s forearm with the head, abdomen, and pelvis supported.
Foreign body
A retained object is an item that becomes lodged inside the body and cannot be removed safely without medical assistance.
Foreign body aspiration
Foreign body aspiration occurs when an object becomes lodged in a child’s airway, often causing sudden or one-sided wheezing after choking.
Foreign body in the ear
A foreign body in the ear is an object placed or stuck inside the ear that needs medical assessment rather than home removal.
Forgiveness
Forgiveness is letting go of resentment after being hurt, even if the relationship does not return to exactly the same place.
Formula-fed stool
Formula-fed stool is often thicker and may be tan, yellow-brown, light brown, or green-brown in color.
formula feeding
Formula feeding is feeding a baby commercially prepared infant formula, usually using bottles and teats.
Formula preparation hygiene
Formula preparation hygiene means using clean hands, surfaces, water, bottles, and tools when preparing infant formula.
Formula Storage
The handling and storage of prepared infant formula according to appropriate container, timing, labeling, temperature, and discard guidance.
Fortified foods
Iron-fortified infant cereal is baby cereal with added iron that can be prepared with milk or another suitable smooth food.
Forward-facing car seat
A child restraint facing the vehicle front that uses an internal harness, often with a top tether, after rear-facing limits are outgrown.
Fourth stage of labor
The first one to two hours after birth, when bleeding, uterine tone, vital signs, pain, and newborn status are monitored.
fracture
A break or crack in a bone.
Frank breech
Frank breech is a breech position where the baby’s buttocks are closest to the cervix and the legs extend upward.
Fraternal twins
Twins that begin as two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm, like ordinary siblings.
Freestanding birth center
A freestanding birth center is a birth center outside a hospital, where transfer distance and hospital relationships affect emergency escalation.
Freeze response
A freeze response is an involuntary reaction to fear in which a child may become unable to move, speak, or respond.
Friction
Friction is rubbing between the skin and another surface that can create mechanical stress and worsen inflammation or superficial skin damage.
friendship loss
The emotional hurt and adjustment a child may feel when a friendship ends.
frustration tolerance
The ability to handle frustration without becoming overwhelmed or giving up right away.
Full-size stroller
A full-size stroller is an all-purpose mobility platform with a larger frame, spacious seat, storage, and adjustable components.
Functional behavior assessment
A functional behavior assessment is a structured process for identifying what happens before and after a behavior and what purpose it may serve.
Functional brain injury
A functional brain injury temporarily disrupts brain activity and communication without necessarily causing visible structural damage on standard scans.
Functional impact
The way a symptom or condition affects a child’s daily activities, sleep, school, sports, eating, or independence.
Functional impairment
Functional impairment is when a behavior begins to interfere with school, meals, hygiene, relationships, sleep, or daily responsibilities.
Fundal check
A fundal check uses abdominal palpation after birth to assess uterine position and firmness and confirm that contractions are limiting bleeding.
Fundal pressure
Manual pressure applied to the top of the uterus during labor to try to help push the baby out.
Furniture tip-over
Furniture tip-over is an injury hazard in which unstable or climbable furniture falls onto a child.
furniture tip-over prevention
Furniture tip-over prevention means securing tall furniture to a wall and using it safely to reduce the risk of it falling on a child.
G
Gagging
A noisy, protective response that helps an infant manage food and differs from choking because breathing is not obstructed.
Galactagogue
A galactagogue is a substance traditionally used or marketed to promote lactation and increase breast milk production.
Gaming withdrawal irritability
Gaming withdrawal irritability is anger, distress, or agitation that happens when a child is asked to stop gaming or loses access to a device.
Gastrocolic reflex
The gastrocolic reflex is a normal response in which eating stimulates movement of the colon and may trigger a bowel movement.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which acidic stomach contents flow back into the esophagus and may irritate or enter the airways.
Gastrointestinal illness
Viral gastroenteritis is an infection that inflames the stomach and intestines, often causing watery stools, vomiting, fever, or cramps.
Gaze aversion
Gaze aversion is an infant’s temporary turning away from eye contact, often used to reduce stimulation and support self-regulation.
gel manicure
A manicure that uses gel polish cured under a UV or LED lamp for a long-lasting finish.
gene-environment interaction
The process in which inherited biology and life experiences influence each other to shape development.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia makes the patient unconscious during surgery and requires airway management, so it is reserved for selected situations.
Genetic counseling
Specialized counseling that helps explain prenatal test results and guide follow-up testing decisions.
Geolocation
Geolocation is location information that can reveal or help identify where a child is or has been.
Gestational age
The length of time a pregnancy has progressed, usually measured in weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period.
Gestational diabetes
Diabetes that develops during pregnancy and is commonly screened for between 24 and 28 weeks.
Gestational diabetes screening
Gestational diabetes screening uses glucose testing during pregnancy to identify elevated blood sugar that may affect fetal growth and delivery planning.
Gestational sac
The first fluid-filled structure of an early pregnancy seen on ultrasound.
gesture
A movement of the body or hands that conveys meaning, such as pointing, showing, reaching, or leaning away.
Giardiasis
Giardiasis is a parasitic intestinal infection that can cause prolonged loose stools, gas, poor appetite, and poor weight gain.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque, that can make gums red, swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding.
Global fee
A global fee is one bundled package price that may cover much of maternity care, not only labor and birth.
Glottis
The glottis is the opening between the vocal cords that closes briefly during a hiccup.
Glucose screening test
A screening blood test in pregnancy that checks how the body handles a glucose drink and flags possible gestational diabetes.
gluten-free diet
An eating pattern that avoids gluten and is medically necessary for people with celiac disease.
Grace period
A 4-day window before the minimum interval when a vaccine dose can still count as valid.
Graded Responsibility
A stepwise approach that transfers a task from adult demonstration to child practice, supervision, and eventual independent completion.
Grading rubric
A grading rubric is a scoring tool that identifies assignment features and describes qualities of performance across different achievement levels.
gradual exposure
Gradual exposure is practicing increasingly difficult steps toward a feared situation while learning to remain present as anxiety rises and falls.
Graduated supervision
A teaching approach that gradually reduces adult help as a child demonstrates reliable street-crossing skills in different situations.
Grasping
Grasping is coordinating the fingers, thumb, and palm to hold and secure an object.
grief
Grief is the intense emotional response to loss, often involving sadness, yearning, and difficulty returning to normal life.
Gross motor skills
Gross motor development is the growth of large-muscle skills such as running, balancing, climbing, jumping, and coordinating body movements.
grounding
A grounding technique directs attention to immediate sensory experiences or a manageable task to reduce distress and stay engaged in the present.
Group B streptococcus
A type of bacteria screened for late in pregnancy to guide antibiotic treatment during labor when needed.
Growling
Growling is a warning vocalization that communicates an animal feels uncomfortable and may need more distance from a child.
Growth evaluation
A growth evaluation is a clinical assessment of measurements, feeding, health, examination findings, and development to understand a baby's growth pattern.
Growth plate
A growth plate is an area of developing tissue in a child’s bone that can be vulnerable to repetitive stress and acute injury.
Growth Trajectory
A growth trajectory is the pattern and direction of a child’s measurements over time rather than a single measurement.
Growth velocity
Growth velocity is the rate at which a child’s weight, length, or head circumference changes over a period of time.
guided imagery
A mind-body technique that uses imagined scenes or sensations to focus attention and support coping during labor.
Gum massage
Gum massage is gentle rubbing or pressure on a baby's gums to ease teething discomfort for a short time.
Gum tenderness
Gingival tenderness is soreness or sensitivity of the gums, often occurring where a tooth is erupting.
H
Habit automaticity
Habit automaticity is the gradual process by which a repeated behavior becomes more automatic through repetition in a stable context.
Hair dye
Hair dye is a cosmetic product containing chemicals used to change or enhance the color of hair.
Hallucinations
Seeing or hearing things that other people do not perceive.
Hand expression
A method of removing breast milk manually without relying on an electric or manual breast pump.
Hand preference
Hand preference is a tendency to use one hand more often, which may fluctuate normally during early infancy.
Hands-and-knees position
A labor position with weight supported on the hands and knees, sometimes used to relieve back pressure.
Hand sanitizer
A germ-reducing hand product with at least 60% alcohol used when soap and water are not available.
Hand-to-hand transfer
Hand-to-hand transfer is a baby’s ability to move an object from one hand into the other during purposeful play and exploration.
Handwashing
Hand hygiene is the practice of cleaning hands with soap and water or supervised sanitizer use to reduce exposure to microorganisms.
Harassment
Harassment is unwanted behavior such as following, touching, sexual comments, threats, or persistent conversation that makes someone feel unsafe.
Harmful content
Harmful content is online material that may distress, mislead, endanger, or encourage unsafe behavior in children.
Hazard perception
The ability to notice and judge dangers, such as approaching, turning, or reversing vehicles, while navigating traffic.
Head and neck support
Head and neck support stabilizes a newborn during lifting and holding while keeping the face visible and the chin away from the chest.
Head circumference
Head circumference is the measurement around an infant’s head, used to monitor skull and brain growth as part of development.
Head circumference growth
A measurement pattern showing how a baby’s head size changes over time, used as context for neurologic assessment.
Head control
Independent head control is a baby's ability to hold their head steady without another person supporting the head and neck.
Head shaking
Repeated shaking or bobbing movements of a baby’s head that may be benign, developmental, or a sign needing medical review.
Health anchor
A health anchor is a recurring routine that protects a child’s physical and emotional well-being, such as sleep, meals, movement, hygiene, or connection.
Health anxiety
Health anxiety is ongoing fear that a normal sensation or symptom means serious illness or harm.
Health care proxy
A health care proxy is documentation naming someone who may help make health care decisions if the patient cannot decide.
Health data
Sensitive information about a child’s body, wellbeing, symptoms, routines, or care that may be collected by apps.
Health information exchange
A health information exchange is a secure electronic system that allows authorized healthcare organizations to share patient information.
Health insurance
Health insurance is coverage that pays all or part of a child's medical costs under an employer, Marketplace, Medicaid, CHIP, or other plan.
Health Insurance Claim
A health insurance claim is a request submitted to an insurer for processing and payment of covered healthcare services.
Health misinformation
Health misinformation is misleading health-related content that may affect care decisions, emotions, habits, or safety behaviors.
Healthy technology use
A child’s overall safety, privacy, relationships, health, and functioning in relation to digital technology use.
Hearing impairment
Hearing loss is reduced ability to hear sounds, which can affect a baby’s listening, speech, and language development.
Hearing screening
Hearing screening checks whether a newborn responds normally to sounds and helps identify babies who may need further hearing evaluation.
heartburn
A burning sensation caused when stomach contents reflux into the esophagus, often worsening during pregnancy as muscles relax and abdominal pressure increases.
Heat stress
Illness caused or worsened by excessive heat exposure, which can make children or dogs overheated and unwell.
Heavy metals
Heavy metals are contaminants such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury that can affect infant development and health.
Heel-prick blood test
A heel-prick blood test uses a small newborn blood sample to screen for inherited and other medical disorders.
Heel-prick test
A heel-prick test collects a few drops of blood from a newborn’s heel to screen for selected inherited and metabolic conditions.
Hematoma
A collection of blood within tissue that may cause swelling, pressure, pain, dizziness, or faintness after birth.
Heme iron
Heme iron is iron from animal tissues that the body generally absorbs more efficiently than plant-based iron.
Hemodynamic instability
Hemodynamic instability means the cardiovascular system is not maintaining enough blood flow to meet the body's needs.
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen through the body.
Hemoglobin A1c
A blood test that estimates average blood sugar over the past few months.
hemorrhoids
Swollen veins around the rectum that can develop or worsen during pregnancy because of increased pelvic pressure and straining.
Herbal supplement
A plant-based product taken for health benefits that may contain active ingredients not proven safe in pregnancy.
herbal tea
A tea made by steeping herbs, flowers, roots, seeds, or bark from plants other than the tea plant.
Hiccups
A hiccup is an involuntary diaphragm contraction followed by brief closure of the vocal cords, producing a rhythmic sound.
High chair
A supported seat that helps a child sit upright during feeding after becoming developmentally ready for solids.
High-contrast pattern
A high-contrast pattern uses strongly different colors or tones to create a clear visual target that young infants may notice more easily.
High-dose supplements
High-dose supplements provide large amounts of nutrients and can be risky, especially when combined with other products in pregnancy.
High-powered magnet
A high-powered magnet is a strong magnet that can attract through intestinal walls and cause pressure injury, perforation, obstruction, or infection.
High-risk pregnancy
A high-risk pregnancy has an increased chance of complications for the pregnant person, the fetus, or both, requiring closer monitoring.
high-risk pregnancy surveillance
Extra monitoring during pregnancy to watch for problems sooner and respond quickly if changes happen.
high-touch surfaces
High-touch surfaces are objects or areas people touch often that can transfer germs to a baby.
HIPAA Privacy Rule
A U.S. healthcare privacy framework that governs how protected health information is used, shared, safeguarded, and documented.
hip hinge
A bending pattern that uses the hips and knees while keeping the spine more neutral.
Hives
Hives are raised, temporary wheals that can move around the body and may signal an allergic reaction in babies.
Hoarseness
Hoarseness is a raspy or altered voice caused by inflammation around the vocal cords, commonly occurring with croup.
Home-alone readiness
A child’s ability to stay home safely based on maturity, judgment, emotional comfort, communication skills, and following instructions.
Home-alone safety plan
A family plan that sets rules, check-ins, safe locations, emergency responses, and limits for children staying home without an adult.
Home birth
A home birth is a planned birth at home, usually considered for carefully selected low-risk pregnancies with backup transfer plans.
Home birth eligibility screening
Home birth eligibility screening is the process of checking whether a pregnancy is a suitable match for planned home birth.
Home birth monitoring
Structured observation during a planned home birth to track maternal wellbeing, fetal wellbeing, and labor progress.
Home birth transfer plan
A prepared plan for moving from home to hospital if labor or newborn findings need facility-based care.
Home cardiorespiratory monitor
A home cardiorespiratory monitor tracks an infant's heart rate or breathing outside a clinical setting.
Home fetal Doppler
A home fetal Doppler is a device that may detect a fetal heartbeat but cannot assess overall fetal well-being.
home pregnancy test
A urine test done at home that looks for hCG to check whether someone is pregnant.
Hormonal changes
Shifts in pregnancy hormones that can affect energy, sleep, appetite, and how strongly emotions are felt.
Hormone imbalance
A disruption in normal hormone signals that can affect ovulation, cycle timing, and early pregnancy.
Hospital admission
Being formally admitted to the hospital for inpatient monitoring, treatment, or further evaluation.
Hospital bag
A hospital bag contains documents, clothing, personal supplies, medications, chargers, and newborn essentials needed during labor and discharge.
Hospital birth
A birth in a hospital where emergency obstetric, anesthesia, blood, and newborn services are immediately available.
Hospital handoff
A caregiver handoff is the transfer of responsibility for a child, including practical information about care, activities, and what happens next.
Hospital policy
Hospital policy is a standardized rule that guides consistent care, safety practices, and decision-making in clinical settings.
Hospital postpartum care
Postpartum care in a hospital setting with longer observation and immediate access to emergency and specialty services.
Hospital transfer
Emergency transfer is moving from home birth to hospital care when complications require time-sensitive obstetric or neonatal treatment.
Hospital visitor policy
A healthcare facility rule set that controls who may enter clinical spaces, when they may be present, and expected behavior.
Human chorionic gonadotropin
A hormone produced during early pregnancy that supports pregnancy and is detected by most pregnancy tests.
Hydration
Hydration is the process of keeping the body supplied with enough fluid.
Hydroquinone
A skin-lightening ingredient used for hyperpigmentation that is commonly avoided in pregnancy because of absorption concerns.
Hypercoagulable state
A hypercoagulable state is a condition in which blood is more likely than usual to form clots.
Hyperemesis gravidarum
A severe form of pregnancy nausea and vomiting that can cause dehydration, weight loss, and need medical treatment.
Hyperglycemia
High blood sugar, which can affect pregnancy outcomes and increase complication risks.
Hyperosmia
An increased reaction to odors that can make foods seem overpowering or unpleasant during pregnancy.
Hyperpigmentation
Darkening of the skin caused by extra melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Hyperprolactinemia
A condition in which prolactin levels are too high and can interfere with ovulation and periods.
Hypertension
Blood pressure that is elevated repeatedly or severely enough to require closer monitoring and possible treatment during labor.
Hypertensive disease
A pregnancy-related condition involving high blood pressure that can affect the mother and baby.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
A pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder monitored through blood pressure checks and symptoms such as headache or visual changes.
Hypertonia
Hypertonia is increased muscle tone that causes unusually stiff muscles and can affect an infant's movement and positioning.
Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation is breathing faster than the body needs, which can increase muscle tension and make sensations feel more intense.
hypervigilance
A calm, awake behavioral state when a baby can look, listen, track objects, vocalize, and tolerate gentle interaction.
Hypnobirthing
A childbirth approach using focused breathing, guided imagery, relaxation, and self-hypnosis to reduce fear and improve coping.
Hypoallergenic lotion
Hypoallergenic lotion is a moisturizer formulated to reduce the likelihood of triggering sensitivity or irritation on delicate skin.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is an abnormally low blood sugar level that can develop quickly in a young infant with poor intake.
Hypokalemia
A low potassium level in the blood that may cause weakness, palpitations, and dangerous heart rhythm problems if severe.
Hypomania
Hypomania is an elevated or irritable mood with increased energy, reduced need for sleep, rapid thoughts, or impulsive behavior.
Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is an abnormally low sodium concentration that can result when excessive plain water dilutes the body’s electrolyte balance.
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is a hormone system that coordinates the body's response to stress.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a dangerously low body temperature that infants may develop with limited warning during cold exposure.
Hypotonia
Hypotonia is decreased muscle tone that can affect posture, movement, and the ability to maintain a stable seated position.
Hypovolemia
Hypovolemia means the circulating blood volume is too low to meet the body's needs.
I
ICE Contact
An emergency contact saved on a phone so emergency personnel can access selected contact information when help is needed.
Identical twins
Twins that begin as one fertilized egg that later splits, so they usually share the same DNA.
imitation
Imitation is copying another person’s actions, sounds, or play behavior.
Immediate postpartum monitoring
Immediate postpartum monitoring checks a mother's bleeding, uterine firmness, vital signs, pain, placenta, and birth-related injuries after delivery.
Immediate postpartum period
The immediate postpartum period is the first minutes and hours after childbirth, when the parent recovers and the newborn adapts.
Immediate pushing
A pushing approach in which a person starts bearing down soon after full cervical dilation is confirmed.
Immersion blender
A handheld blending tool that processes food directly inside a deep container instead of transferring it to a separate appliance.
Immunization administration
Immunization administration is the clinical work involved in preparing and giving a vaccine, which may be billed separately from the vaccine.
Immunization Registry
An immunization registry is an official system that stores and retrieves a person's vaccination history from healthcare or public health records.
Immunization schedule
A planned timetable for vaccines based on disease risk, immune response, and when protection is needed.
Immunosuppression
A reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections and other health threats.
Impersonation
Pretending to be a trusted person or organization by copying names, logos, writing styles, or profile images.
Implantation
Implantation is the process in which the early embryo attaches to the uterine lining after traveling toward the uterus.
Inactivated vaccine
A vaccine that does not contain live organisms and is commonly used in pregnancy when vaccination is recommended.
Incisional hernia
A bulge at or near a surgical incision that can occur if the abdominal wall does not heal firmly.
Incision care
Cesarean incision care involves protecting the surgical wound, following dressing instructions, and monitoring for infection, drainage, separation, or worsening pain.
Inclined sleeper
An inclined sleeper is an infant sleep product that places the baby's head or torso at an elevated angle.
Inconsistent routine
An inconsistent routine changes basic expectations or caregiving patterns so often that children cannot reliably predict what will happen next.
Incubator
An incubator is NICU equipment used to help a newborn maintain a stable and appropriate body temperature.
Independent play
Play a child does alone, without joining a group, often used to build focus, creativity, and independence.
Independent rolling
Independent rolling is a baby’s ability to move from back to tummy and tummy to back without help.
Independent sitting
Independent sitting is a developmental milestone in which a baby can remain upright without continuous support from another person or object.
independent thinking
The ability to pause, gather information, and form a reasoned view instead of simply copying or agreeing automatically.
Independent travel
Independent travel is a young person’s ability to use transportation without continuous adult supervision while managing routine and unexpected situations safely.
Indoor air quality
The condition of air inside a school building, influenced by ventilation, pollutants, odors, moisture, and infectious particles.
Induction of labor
A medical process used to start labor with methods such as cervical ripening, membrane rupture, or oxytocin.
Inefficient uterine contractions
Contractions that may feel strong or frequent but do not create effective, consistent pressure on the cervix.
Infant abdominal massage
Infant abdominal massage is gentle belly massage used by some caregivers to soothe a baby’s gas discomfort.
Infant anticipation
Infant anticipation is a baby’s early ability to expect what is likely to happen next in familiar routines.
Infant attention
Infant attention is a developing ability to orient toward, focus on, and shift away from people, objects, and sensory experiences.
Infant attention span
An infant’s attention span is the developing ability to orient, stay alert, process input, and disengage when stimulation is enough.
Infant botulism
Botulism is a serious illness that infants can develop from honey, which is not appropriate before 12 months of age.
Infant Carrier
A wearable carrier that holds a baby close to an adult while keeping the baby's face visible and airway clear.
Infant communication cues
Early baby behaviors such as looking, smiling, cooing, or pausing that signal social interest or response.
Infant CPR
Infant CPR is an emergency procedure taught in first aid training to help a baby while emergency responders are being contacted.
Infant crying
Inconsolable crying is crying or agitation that does not improve with usual soothing, feeding, holding, or comfort measures.
Infant cues
Infant cues are a baby's behaviors and physical signals that show engagement, fatigue, stress, or a need for a pause.
Infant-directed singing
Infant-directed singing uses slower tempo, wider pitch range, repetition, and expressive pauses to engage a baby's attention and support communication.
Infant-directed speech
Infant-directed speech is a communication style using expressive pitch, slower pacing, clear pronunciation, repetition, and short phrases for babies.
Infant dyschezia
Infant dyschezia is straining while a baby learns to coordinate belly pressure and pelvic floor relaxation for bowel movements.
Infant emergency preparedness
Infant emergency preparedness is planning supplies, feeding, medical information, transport, and care steps before a disaster or urgent situation.
Infant emotional regulation
The ability to manage feelings and behavior, especially during frustration or change.
Infant formula
Formula is a prepared infant food used to feed babies when breast milk is not used or not enough.
Infant gas
Infant gas is air or intestinal gas in a baby’s digestive tract that may cause squirming, crying, or discomfort.
Infant hydration
Infant hydration is maintaining a baby’s fluid balance mainly through breast milk or formula, with water added after solids begin.
Infantile hemangioma
A benign vascular growth that may become more noticeable after birth and can require evaluation if it grows rapidly or affects function.
Infant laughter
A baby’s early laugh is a social and sensory response to stimulation, novelty, or connection with a caregiver.
Infant massage
Gentle, caregiver-provided stroking of a baby’s body that may promote comfort and connection when performed safely.
Infant regulation
How a baby’s nervous system organizes sleep, feeding, sensory input, arousal, and caregiver cues.
Infant rolling
A developmental movement in which an infant turns onto the side or stomach, signaling that some bassinets may no longer be appropriate.
Infant scale
A baby scale is a device designed to measure an infant's body weight safely and consistently.
infant sleep
Infant sleep is a changing developmental pattern with short sleep cycles, frequent waking, and shifting sleep distribution during the first year.
Infant sleep cycle
A sleep cycle is a repeating pattern of sleep stages that includes brief arousals when a baby may partially wake between cycles.
Infant sleep cycles
Infant sleep cycles are short, light sleep periods that commonly end with brief waking, stirring, vocalizing, or crying.
Infant sleepiness
A change in alertness in which a baby is unusually difficult to wake, less responsive, or unable to interact normally.
Infant sleep positioner
A sleep positioner is a device intended to hold an infant's head or body in a particular position during sleep.
Infant soothing
Infant soothing uses calm, familiar techniques such as holding, soft vocal sounds, gentle movement, feeding, or reducing environmental stimulation.
Infant Suffocation Risk
Infant suffocation risk is the possibility that unsafe sleep locations or materials could block breathing, especially when a caregiver accidentally falls asleep.
Infant temperament
Infant temperament is a biologically influenced pattern of activity, sensitivity, emotional reactivity, and self-regulation.
Infant visual attention
Infant visual attention is a baby's developing ability to look at, process, and respond to visual information.
Infant vocal experimentation
A normal developmental behavior in which babies practice sounds as they learn what their mouth, voice, and breathing can do.
Infant weight monitoring
Tracking an infant’s weight under consistent conditions over time to identify meaningful growth patterns and support clinical care.
Infection prevention
Clinical practices and supplies used to reduce contamination and infection risk during and after birth care.
inferior vena cava
The inferior vena cava is a large vein that returns blood from the lower body to the heart.
Inferior vena cava compression
Pressure on the large vein that returns blood from the lower body to the heart.
influenza
Influenza, or flu, is a viral illness that often begins suddenly with fever, aches, fatigue, and cough.
Influenza vaccine
A seasonal vaccine that helps prevent influenza, commonly called the flu.
Informational support
Clear explanations that reduce uncertainty by helping a person understand options, timelines, and what to ask next.
Informed consent
Clear permission that is specific, voluntary, informed, and reversible when sharing information, images, or videos involving others.
Informed refusal
A consent process in which a capable patient declines a recommended intervention after understanding risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Ingestion
Ingestion is the swallowing of an object or substance, which may cause choking, internal injury, obstruction, or other medical complications.
Ingrown toenail
An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail edge digs into the surrounding skin, causing pain or inflammation.
Inhalational exposure
Inhalation exposure occurs when a person breathes fumes, vapors, or airborne particles released by a product.
Inhibin A
A placental hormone measured in the quad screen and used to calculate risk for certain chromosomal conditions.
Inhibitory Control
A child’s developing ability to pause, manage urges, and choose behavior during emotionally or socially demanding moments.
Innerspring mattress
A crib mattress containing internal springs, which may provide a substantial feel or firm perimeter depending on its construction.
Insecure-avoidant attachment
Insecure-avoidant attachment is a pattern in which a baby may avoid contact after separation while still experiencing distress.
Insecure-resistant attachment
Insecure-resistant attachment is a pattern in which a baby seeks closeness but remains very distressed and difficult to soothe.
Insomnia
Persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or obtaining restorative sleep despite having an opportunity to sleep.
Instrumental support
Practical help that meets basic needs, such as water, positioning, transportation, childcare, meals, or medication reminders.
Insulin resistance
Insulin resistance is a reduced response to insulin that helps redirect more glucose and nutrients to the fetus during pregnancy.
integrated care
Care coordination is the organized sharing of information, routines, and responsibilities among adults who care for the same baby.
Integrated pest management
A pest-control approach that prioritizes sanitation, pest exclusion, moisture control, and physical methods before chemical treatment.
intercourse
Penetrative sexual activity between partners, often called sex, that may or may not lead to orgasm.
intercurrent illness
An illness that happens at the same time as pregnancy symptoms but is not part of normal pregnancy changes.
Interdental brush
A small brush used to clean between teeth where a regular toothbrush cannot reach.
Interest-based learning
An approach to teaching that starts with what a child already likes and uses that interest to build skills and participation.
Internal fetal heart rate monitoring
Internal fetal monitoring uses an internal device to get a clearer fetal heart rate tracing during labor.
Internalizing symptoms
Inward-facing emotional or behavioral symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, withdrawal, rumination, or body complaints.
Internal rotation
Internal rotation is the baby’s turn within the pelvis to align the head with the pelvic outlet for birth.
Interoception
The ability to notice internal body signals, such as fatigue, tension, boredom, or overstimulation.
Intervention rate
An intervention rate describes how often a clinical action occurs within a defined birth care population.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is a blockage that prevents contents from moving normally through the intestines.
Intestinal Perforation
Intestinal perforation is a hole or tear in the intestine that allows intestinal contents and bacteria to enter the abdominal cavity.
intimacy
Closeness between partners that can include kissing, touching, sex, massage, cuddling, and emotional connection.
intimate partner violence
Physical, emotional, or coercive abuse by a partner that can make pregnancy unsafe.
Intra-amniotic infection
An infection of the membranes and fluid around the baby during labor.
Intracranial hemorrhage
An intracranial hemorrhage is bleeding inside the skull that can follow a head injury and requires urgent medical assessment.
Intrapartum care
Medical care and monitoring during labor and delivery.
Intrauterine insemination
A fertility procedure that places prepared sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation to increase the chance of conception.
Intrauterine pregnancy
A pregnancy located inside the uterus.
Intrauterine pressure catheter
An intrauterine pressure catheter is an internal monitor used during labor to measure contraction strength.
Intrauterine resuscitation
A set of measures used during labor to improve a concerning fetal heart rate pattern or fetal oxygenation.
Intravenous fluids
Intravenous fluids provide hydration and energy through a vein when a newborn is not ready to take enough milk by mouth.
Intraventricular hemorrhage
Intraventricular hemorrhage is bleeding into the brain's ventricular system, especially a concern in preterm infants.
intrusive thoughts
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted thoughts that can be frightening or distressing and may occur without an intention to act on them.
Involuntary urge to push
An involuntary bearing-down reflex is an automatic urge to push that occurs when contractions and pelvic responses prompt the body to bear down.
Iodine
Iodine is a mineral needed to produce thyroid hormones and support fetal brain and nervous-system development.
Ionizing radiation
Radiation with enough energy to remove electrons from atoms, which can damage tissue at higher doses.
Iron
Iron is an essential mineral that supports hemoglobin production, oxygen transport, cellular energy, and brain development in infants.
Iron-rich foods
Iron-rich foods provide iron needed during complementary feeding and include meat, legumes, tofu, eggs, and fortified infant cereals.
Irregular menstrual cycle
A menstrual cycle with widely varying bleeding intervals, very long or short cycles, or missed periods.
Irritant contact dermatitis
Irritant dermatitis is skin inflammation caused by repeated contact with friction, moisture, chemicals, or other irritating substances.
Ischemia
Ischemia is reduced blood flow to tissue, which can occur when swallowed magnets exert pressure on the intestine.
Itch-scratch cycle
A pattern where itching leads to scratching, which damages skin and worsens inflammation.
Iteration
The process of improving something by testing it again and again.
J
Jaundice
Jaundice is yellowing of the skin or eyes caused by elevated bilirubin, and worsening or early jaundice in newborns requires clinical assessment.
Jealousy
A strong feeling that someone may be taking away attention, closeness, or belonging in a relationship.
Jet lag
Jet lag is sleep and body-clock disruption that happens after crossing time zones before the body adjusts to local time.
K
Kangaroo care
Skin-to-skin contact is holding a diapered infant against a caregiver’s bare chest while maintaining a clear airway and supervision.
Karyotype
A karyotype is a chromosome test performed on fetal cells to help identify chromosomal conditions.
Keloid scar
A keloid scar is an overgrown raised scar caused by more prominent collagen production during healing.
Ketogenic diet
A ketogenic diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan meant to shift the body into ketosis.
Ketones
Ketones are fuel molecules the liver produces from fat during fasting, calorie deficit, or carbohydrate restriction.
Ketosis
Ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body makes ketones from fat when carbohydrate intake is very low.
L
Labor
Labor marked by contractions that develop a pattern, intensify, last longer, move closer together, and continue despite rest or hydration.
Labor and delivery nurse
A nurse who provides bedside clinical care, monitoring, medication support, comfort measures, coordination, and advocacy during labor and birth.
Labor and delivery unit
A hospital maternity area organized for triage, labor, birth, recovery, newborn support, and emergency escalation.
Labor augmentation
Labor augmentation uses medical methods to strengthen or speed labor that has already started.
Labor complications
Problems during labor or birth that can increase maternal or newborn risk and require closer monitoring or urgent treatment.
Labor duration
The length of time labor lasts, which can vary widely as contractions, cervical change, fetal position, and maternal factors interact.
Labor emergency
A time-sensitive maternal or fetal problem during labor requiring prompt assessment or intervention because continued observation may be unsafe.
Labor environment preferences
Preferences for room surroundings, sensory cues, privacy, movement, and support people that may help someone cope during labor.
Labor induction after cesarean
The use of medical methods to start labor in someone who has previously had a cesarean birth.
Laboring down
Laboring down is a period of passive descent during which contractions move the baby lower before active pushing begins.
Labor intervention
A medical step used during labor or birth that should have a clear indication, benefit, and consent.
Labor pain
Labor pain is discomfort caused by uterine contractions, cervical changes, pressure, and stretching during childbirth.
Labor pain relief
An analgesic is a medicine intended to relieve pain and improve comfort without necessarily treating the underlying cause.
labor position
A labor position is the posture a person uses during contractions and pushing in labor.
Labor positions
A change in a laboring person's body position, such as turning, rolling, sitting, squatting, or shifting side to side.
Labor progression
The way labor moves through cervical change, baby descent, contractions, pushing, and delivery over time.
Labor progress monitoring
Assessment of how labor is advancing using contractions, maternal signs, baby descent, and selected examinations.
Labor risk
Labor risk is the chance that labor may become unsafe without monitoring, support, or medical intervention.
Labor room
A hospital room set up to support labor, birth, emergency response, and immediate postpartum and newborn care.
Labor stage
A phase of labor identified by cervical change, contraction patterns, birth progress, and delivery of the placenta.
Labor support
Ongoing emotional and practical support during labor from a partner, doula, nurse, midwife, or other trusted person.
Labor timeline
A labor timeline describes the expected pace of labor stages, while allowing wide individual variation and clinical reassessment.
lactation
Breastfeeding is feeding a baby breast milk directly from the lactating parent's breast.
Lactation consultant
A trained professional who helps assess milk removal, pumping technique, equipment fit, and infant feeding concerns.
Lactation support
Breastfeeding support is practical and emotional assistance with feeding, including positioning, recognizing cues, protecting rest, and finding professional help.
Lactogenesis II
Lactogenesis II is the hormonal transition after delivery when breast milk volume increases as progesterone falls and prolactin acts more fully.
Laid-back breastfeeding position
A nursing position in which the parent reclines while the baby rests prone on the parent's chest with support.
Language development
Language development is the gradual process through which babies learn to understand and communicate using sounds, gestures, words, and social interaction.
Language reciprocity
Language reciprocity is back-and-forth communication in which a child and caregiver take turns vocalizing, responding, and sharing attention.
Lanugo
Lanugo is fine, soft hair that can develop on the fetus during the second trimester.
lap infant
A lap infant is a child younger than two years who travels without a ticketed seat while seated on an accompanying adult's lap.
Larynx
The larynx is the voice-producing structure that converts airflow from breathing into sound through vocal fold vibration.
Last menstrual period
The last menstrual period is the menstrual cycle used as the starting point for calculating gestational age and estimating a due date.
Latch
A latch is the way a baby attaches to the breast to feed effectively and comfortably.
Late hunger cues
Late hunger cues are distress behaviors that may occur when a hungry baby becomes increasingly upset and harder to organize for feeding.
Latency period
The latency period is the time between rupture of membranes and delivery.
Late prenatal care
Prenatal care that starts after the usual early pregnancy booking period, often in the second or third trimester.
Late preterm birth
Late preterm birth refers to birth around 34 to 36 weeks, before full term but closer to term than earlier preterm birth.
learned helplessness
A sense that repeated setbacks mean your actions will not make a difference.
Learning difficulties
Learning difficulties are persistent problems acquiring or using academic skills that can make schoolwork and progress harder.
Leash handling
Using and controlling a dog leash safely to prevent sudden pulling, tripping, escapes, and loss of control.
Length board
A length board is measuring equipment used to determine an infant’s recumbent length accurately while the baby lies flat.
Length-for-age
Length-for-age is a growth measurement that provides information about a baby’s linear growth compared with age-based expectations.
Lethargy
Abnormally low alertness or energy in a baby, especially when the baby is hard to wake or cannot feed normally.
Leukonychia
Leukonychia is white spots or streaks that appear in the nail plate.
Libido
Libido is a person's level of sexual desire or interest in sexual activity.
Lidocaine
A local anesthetic used to numb pain that can be unsafe in teething products for babies.
Life jacket
A life jacket is a properly fitted flotation device that supports buoyancy during boating or unexpected entry into deep or moving water.
ligament laxity
Loosening of the ligaments that can make joints less stable during pregnancy and easier to strain.
Linea nigra
Linea nigra is a darkened vertical line that may develop down the abdomen during pregnancy because of increased skin pigmentation.
Liquefaction necrosis
A type of tissue breakdown caused by a strongly alkaline environment that may continue even after the battery is removed.
lithotomy position
A birth or procedure position with the legs raised and separated, used for exams, repairs, or assisted birth.
Live-attenuated vaccine
A vaccine made with a weakened live organism that is usually avoided during pregnancy.
Load
The weight or force that a structure can hold up.
Local anesthetic
A medicine that numbs part of the body by blocking pain signals.
Local muscle fatigue
Local muscle fatigue is tiredness in specific muscles caused by holding a posture, bracing, or maintaining effort during labor.
Location sharing
A feature that allows an app or other people to see a child’s current or repeated physical location.
Log rolling
Log rolling is a transfer technique that involves rolling onto the side before sitting up to reduce twisting and strain after surgery.
Loneliness
The feeling of being alone or not connected to other people.
Loose parts play
A style of play that gives children movable everyday objects to combine, transform, and use in open-ended ways.
Loss of appetite
Loss of appetite is a noticeable reduction in a baby’s usual interest in or intake of milk, formula, or solid foods.
Loss of fetal station
An upward movement of the presenting fetal part in the birth canal that can occur when the uterus no longer contains it normally.
Lost-child service
An official venue service or secure location where separated children stay while staff help coordinate reunification with caregivers.
Lotus birth
Lotus birth is a practice in which the placenta remains attached to the newborn until the umbilical cord separates naturally.
Low birth weight
Low birth weight means a baby weighs less than 2,500 grams at birth and may require additional monitoring and care.
Low-carbohydrate diet
A low-carbohydrate diet reduces carbs, especially refined starches and sugars, without necessarily causing sustained ketosis.
Lower central incisors
The lower central incisors are the two bottom front teeth, and they usually come in first.
Lower esophageal sphincter
The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle valve that can be immature in infants, contributing to reflux and spit-up.
Low libido
Low libido is reduced sexual desire, which can be influenced by fatigue, nausea, pain, stress, mood, medication, or relationship factors.
Low milk supply
Low milk supply means breast milk production may be insufficient to meet an infant’s intake needs after clinical assessment.
Low-risk pregnancy
A pregnancy progressing normally without significant medical or obstetric complications that would require special monitoring or change travel advice.
Low self-esteem
A negative view of oneself that may develop when a child believes being left out means something is wrong with them.
Low transverse uterine incision
A low transverse uterine incision is the most common uterine cut type and often allows discussion of TOLAC.
Loyalty conflict
A loyalty conflict occurs when a child feels pressured to take sides or manage emotions between caregivers.
Lubrication
Lubrication is a compatible product used to reduce friction during sexual activity and help protect delicate tissue and barriers.
Lumbar Spine
The lower part of the spine in the small of the back.
lung maturation
Lung maturation is the process by which fetal lungs develop enough to work after birth.
Luteal phase
The phase after ovulation when progesterone helps prepare and maintain the uterine lining.
M
Maceration
Maceration is the softening of skin caused by prolonged exposure to moisture.
Magnesium sulfate
A medication used during severe preeclampsia to lower the mother's risk of seizures.
Magnet ingestion
Magnet ingestion occurs when a child swallows one or more magnets, which can attract through intestinal tissue and cause serious internal injury.
Magnetometer
An older airport security detector that senses metal without using radiation and is not harmful to a fetus.
Malabsorption
Malabsorption is reduced absorption of nutrients from the digestive tract, which can contribute to inadequate growth and weight gain.
Malware
Malware is harmful software that can be installed through unsafe downloads and may steal information or damage a device.
Managed risk
Managed risk is allowing children age-appropriate challenges with supervision and sensible boundaries instead of eliminating all risk.
Mania
A mood state marked by unusually high energy, less need for sleep, and risky behavior.
Manual removal of the placenta
Manual removal is a procedure in which a trained clinician enters the uterus through the vagina and cervix to remove retained placental tissue.
Manual rotation
A clinical procedure where a clinician uses a hand during vaginal examination to turn the baby’s head toward a better position.
Marketplace Coverage
Health insurance purchased through the federal or a state health insurance Marketplace, often with enrollment managed through an online application.
Marketplace plan
A Marketplace plan is health insurance purchased through a federal or state health insurance exchange, often with income-based financial assistance.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy during labor uses touch techniques to help reduce discomfort, anxiety, and muscle tension during contractions.
Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammatory breast condition that can cause localized pain, firmness, redness, fever, and other systemic symptoms.
Mastoiditis
Inflammation or infection involving tissue around the mastoid bone behind the ear, requiring prompt medical assessment.
Masturbation
Masturbation is solo sexual activity used to explore comfort, arousal, and bodily responses without another person’s involvement.
matcha
A powdered green tea made from the whole leaf, so it may contain more caffeine than a typical brewed tea.
Maternal antibodies
Antibodies made by the pregnant person that can cross the placenta and help protect the baby.
maternal collapse
A sudden severe deterioration in the birthing person that requires immediate emergency response.
Maternal-fetal attachment
The developing emotional bond between a pregnant person and the fetus, often growing through movement, scans, naming, and preparation.
maternal-fetal medicine
A pregnancy specialty that manages higher-risk pregnancies and complex fetal problems.
Maternal-fetal medicine specialist
A maternal-fetal medicine specialist is an obstetric expert who cares for complex pregnancies and high-risk fetal concerns.
Maternal hypotension
Low blood pressure in the birthing parent, which can happen after epidural medication and may affect placental blood flow.
Maternal immunization
Vaccination during pregnancy to protect the pregnant person and help shield the baby before and after birth.
Maternal monitoring
Monitoring of the birthing person's vital signs, symptoms, comfort, hydration, bleeding, contractions, and emotional wellbeing during labor.
Maternal serum screening
Prenatal blood screening that measures substances in the pregnant person's blood to estimate the chance of certain fetal conditions.
Maternal shock
A life-threatening condition in which the body does not receive enough blood flow and oxygen, often due to severe bleeding.
Maternal stabilization
Maternal stabilization is preparing and supporting the birthing person before transport to reduce the risk of deterioration during movement.
Maternity insurance coverage
Retroactive coverage makes eligible healthcare services received before formal approval payable from an earlier qualifying date.
Maternity leave
The legally protected leave period a worker can take around childbirth, including time before and after the baby is born.
Maternity triage
A maternity service that assesses labor concerns, pregnancy symptoms, and urgent needs to direct a person to appropriate care.
Mealtime boundaries
Mealtime boundaries are clear, consistent limits that teach children what behavior is expected while eating.
Meal train
A meal train is an organized system where support people bring meals during postpartum recovery.
Means-end behavior
Means-end behavior is using an action as a way to achieve a desired result, such as moving around an obstacle to reach an object.
Meconium
Meconium is a newborn's first stool, a thick dark material passed after birth.
Meconium aspiration syndrome
Meconium aspiration syndrome happens when a baby has breathing trouble after meconium is present and aspiration interferes with gas exchange.
Meconium-stained fluid
Meconium-stained amniotic fluid contains the baby's first stool and may require assessment when it is thick or accompanied by fetal concerns.
Media literacy
The ability to understand and make safe, thoughtful choices about technology, privacy, and online information sharing.
Media multitasking
Media multitasking is using or switching between multiple media activities, which can increase cognitive switching demands and reduce learning depth.
Median
The median is the midpoint of a reference population, with approximately half of comparable measurements below and half above it.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state health coverage program for eligible people with limited income or certain medical or family characteristics.
Medical action plan
A medical action plan provides written instructions for managing a child’s condition and recognizing when urgent medical care is needed.
Medical authority in labor
Clinical expertise used during labor to assess risk and recommend care, while still remaining bounded by patient autonomy and consent.
Medical interpreter
A professional medical interpreter helps people with language barriers communicate accurately with health care staff during medical care.
medically unexplained symptoms
Symptoms whose cause is not clear right away and may involve more than one body system.
Medical records
Documents that describe a child’s past care, test results, diagnoses, medicines, procedures, and treatment history.
Medicated birth
A birth experience that uses medication or anesthesia to reduce labor pain while supporting safety and participation.
Medicated postpartum recovery
Postpartum recovery that includes medicines to reduce pain and inflammation so healing, movement, feeding, and rest are easier.
Medication Administration Log
A medication administration log records what medication was given and when, helping caregivers follow an established child care plan accurately.
Medication concentration
The amount of active medicine contained in a specific volume of liquid, often stated as a strength on the label.
Medication dose
The specific amount of medicine prescribed to be given at one time or during a defined period.
Medication Error
A preventable mistake involving a medicine’s product, concentration, dose, timing, or administration to the wrong person.
medication for opioid use disorder
Treatment that uses approved medicines to manage opioid addiction and reduce cravings and withdrawal.
Medication list
A written list of all medicines and supplements a child takes, including doses, timing, effects, and side effects.
Medication override
A medication override is emergency access to certain medications before full pharmacist review when urgent treatment is needed.
Medication review
Medication reconciliation is the process of reviewing all medicines and supplements to identify duplications, discrepancies, and dosing problems.
Medication safety
Practices that prevent unsafe access, dosing changes, or use of medication without explicit instructions from a responsible adult.
Medication side effects
An unwanted or harmful response to a medicine that may range from mild symptoms to a serious condition requiring urgent evaluation.
Mediolateral episiotomy
A mediolateral episiotomy is an episiotomy cut angled away from the anus to reduce anal sphincter extension risk.
Melanonychia
Melanonychia is a brown or black pigment band that appears in a nail.
Melasma
Melasma is pregnancy-related facial skin darkening caused by increased pigmentation, often appearing as irregular patches on the face.
Melatonin
A hormone involved in darkness signaling and sleep timing that may increase the uterus’s response to oxytocin near labor.
Membrane sweep
A membrane sweep is a procedure that separates the amniotic sac membranes near the cervix to encourage labor.
memory consolidation
Memory consolidation is the process by which sleep helps stabilize and integrate newly learned information.
Menstrual cramps
Menstrual cramps are lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort commonly caused by uterine contractions influenced by prostaglandins.
Menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle is the recurring process from the first day of one period to the first day of the next.
Menstruation
Menstruation is monthly vaginal bleeding that occurs when the uterine lining leaves the body because pregnancy did not occur.
Mental health crisis
A situation involving severe emotional or psychological distress that may create an immediate risk of harm or require urgent support.
Mental preparation for labor
Planning before labor that combines medical readiness, practical logistics, and emotional flexibility for childbirth and early postpartum care.
Mental Representation
A mental representation is an internal idea of an object, person, or event that remains available when it is not directly perceived.
Mercury exposure
Fish with enough mercury content to make them unsafe to eat regularly during pregnancy and fetal development.
Metacognition
Metacognition is the ability to think about and reflect on one’s own thoughts, reactions, and decision-making.
Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia is a dangerous blood condition in which blood cannot carry oxygen normally.
microbreak
A safe crib break is a brief pause in which an overwhelmed caregiver places a baby safely in a cot or bassinet before stepping away to calm down.
Microsleep
A microsleep is a brief, unintended episode of sleep that can occur during severe fatigue and impair safe performance.
Middle ear
The air-filled space behind the eardrum that can become inflamed or infected during an ear infection.
Middle ear fluid
Middle ear fluid is fluid behind the eardrum that can reduce sound transmission and temporarily affect hearing or balance.
Midline crossing
Midline crossing is reaching or moving across the body's center from one side toward the opposite side.
Midline episiotomy
A midline episiotomy is an episiotomy cut straight from the vaginal opening toward the anus.
midwife
A midwife is a licensed birth clinician who provides medical assessment and care during pregnancy, labor, and birth.
Midwifery care
Midwifery care is a maternity care model focused on pregnancy support, labor care, birth, postpartum follow-up, education, and shared decision-making.
Milia
Milia are tiny white or yellow-white bumps caused by trapped keratin in small surface cysts, often on a newborn's face.
Miliaria
Heat rash is a sweat-related rash caused by blocked sweat ducts, producing clear bumps or red itchy bumps in warm or covered areas.
Milk ejection reflex
The milk ejection reflex is the release of milk from the breast caused by oxytocin-driven contraction of cells around the milk-producing alveoli.
Milk stool
Milk stool is the established stool that develops after meconium and transitional stool as a newborn begins receiving breast milk or formula.
Milk transfer
Milk transfer is the movement of breast milk from the breast to the baby during effective sucking and swallowing.
Millimeter-wave scanner
An airport security scanner that uses non-ionizing millimeter-wave energy to detect concealed objects without producing medical-style images.
Mind-body techniques
Coping methods that use attention, breathing, relaxation, movement, sound, or support to help manage labor pain and fear.
mindfulness
Mindfulness is paying attention to present experiences without adding self-criticism or becoming caught up in judgment.
Mindfulness-based childbirth preparation
Mindfulness-based childbirth preparation teaches people to notice sensations, thoughts, and fear during labor without automatically reacting to them as danger.
Mindfulness during labor
A coping approach that involves noticing contractions and sensations without adding panic or self-criticism.
mineral oil
A bland oil that can be applied briefly to soften stubborn scale before washing.
Mini crib
A smaller crib that provides an infant sleep space while using less floor area than a standard crib.
Minimum viable routine
A minimum viable routine is a simplified plan that preserves essential care and connection during especially demanding days.
Mirror Self-Recognition
Mirror self-recognition is the developmental ability to understand that a reflection represents oneself rather than another person.
Miscarriage
A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that occurs before the fetus reaches viability, often during the first 20 to 24 weeks.
Misinformation
Misinformation is inaccurate or misleading information that may be presented online without reliable supporting evidence.
Moderate physical activity
Aerobic exercise that raises heart rate and breathing while still allowing a person to speak in complete sentences.
Modified-release medicine
A modified-release medicine is designed to release its drug gradually or at a specific rate over time.
Molding
Molding is the slight overlapping of fetal skull bones during labor to help the baby’s head adapt to the pelvis.
Monochorionic diamniotic twins
Monochorionic diamniotic twins share one placenta but have separate amniotic sacs.
Monochorionic monoamniotic twins
Monochorionic monoamniotic twins share both one placenta and one amniotic sac, increasing cord entanglement risk.
Monochorionic twin pregnancy
A twin pregnancy in which both babies share one chorion and placenta, which can require closer monitoring.
Mood swings
Emotional variability during early pregnancy that may include anxiety, excitement, ambivalence, or other changing feelings.
Mood tracking
A simple record of moods, sleep, symptoms, and triggers to spot patterns and guide support.
morning light exposure
Light exposure is the use of natural or bright light to help shift the body clock toward the desired sleep schedule.
Motion sickness
Motion sickness is nausea and related symptoms caused when the inner ear, eyes, and other sensory systems send conflicting movement signals.
Motivational interviewing
Motivational interviewing is an evidence-informed communication approach that emphasizes partnership, permission, autonomy, and the person’s own priorities.
Motor control
Motor control is the brain and nervous system’s coordination of muscles to produce purposeful, balanced, and appropriately timed movement.
Motor development
The process by which a child gains movement skills such as rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, and walking.
Motor learning
Motor learning is the active process of improving movement through exploration, repetition, sensory feedback, and adjustment.
Motor planning
The ability to organize and carry out a sequence of movements.
Mouthing
Mouthing is a common way babies explore objects by bringing safe items to their mouths.
Movement-evoked pain
Movement-evoked pain is pain that increases or changes when a person moves or performs activity.
M-shaped hip position
An M-shaped hip position keeps an infant’s knees flexed and higher than or level with the buttocks while the thighs receive support.
Mucus plug
The mucus plug is a seal in the cervix that helps block bacteria and other substances from entering the uterus during pregnancy.
Multidisciplinary care
Multidisciplinary care involves coordinated input from clinicians in several specialties for a complex medical problem.
Multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication is an account security step that requires an extra proof, such as a verification code, beyond a password.
Multilingual language development
The normal process of learning and using more than one language over time.
Multimodal pain management
Multimodal pain management combines medicines with different mechanisms to improve postoperative comfort while reducing reliance on any single medication.
Multiple gestation
A pregnancy with more than one fetus.
Multisensory integration
The brain’s process of using sensory information to organize and coordinate movement.
Muscle tone
Muscle tone is the baseline level of tension in muscles, which can affect how an infant holds the body and moves.
Muscular endurance
Muscular endurance is the ability of muscles to sustain repeated or prolonged activity without tiring quickly.
Musculoskeletal symptoms
Musculoskeletal symptoms are pain or discomfort in muscles, joints, neck, back, shoulders, wrists, or posture-related areas.
Myometrium
The myometrium is the muscular layer of the uterus that contracts during pregnancy and labor.
Myopia
Myopia is nearsightedness, a vision condition in which distant objects are harder to see clearly.
N
Nail plate
The nail plate is the visible hard part of the nail that can split, discolor, or separate from the nail bed.
Nap
Napping is daytime sleep that may restore an overtired child but can disrupt nighttime sleep if too long or too late.
Narrow therapeutic index
A narrow therapeutic index means the amount of medicine that helps and the amount that may be toxic are close together.
Nasal congestion
A stuffy or blocked nose caused by mucus, which can affect a young baby's feeding, sleep, or breathing comfort.
Nasal flaring
Nasal flaring is widening of a baby’s nostrils during breathing, which can signal increased effort or respiratory distress.
Nasal mucosa
The delicate lining inside the nose that can become irritated or swollen if cleaned too roughly.
Nasal Suction
A method of gently clearing mucus from a baby’s nose to help with congestion, especially before feeding.
Nasolacrimal system
The tear drainage pathway that carries tears from the eye toward the nose.
Natural birth
Natural birth is usually a vaginal birth with minimal intervention when labor progresses normally, while allowing evidence-based care when medically needed.
Natural birth rate
The proportion of births in a maternity service that are reported as natural, vaginal, physiologic, or low-intervention births.
Natural Consequences
Outcomes that follow a child's actions and help make routines meaningful without shame, punishment, or compromised safety.
Natural labor induction
Attempts to start labor without medical supervision, which may be unsafe depending on the method used.
Natural labor pain management
Nonmedication comfort strategies used during labor to reduce distress, support coping, and help the body relax.
nausea
A queasy, uneasy feeling in the stomach that can be triggered by strong odors during pregnancy.
Navel
The navel is the baby's belly button, the area where the umbilical cord was attached before birth.
Neck flexion
Neck flexion is a forward bend of the neck that can cause a baby's chin to press toward the chest and narrow the airway.
Necrotizing enterocolitis
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious inflammatory intestinal disease that can affect preterm infants.
negotiation
Negotiation is discussion aimed at reaching an agreement or turn-sharing plan.
Neonatal acne
Small red or white bumps that can appear on a baby’s cheeks or forehead in early life.
Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia is a condition in which maternal antibodies attack a fetus's or newborn's platelets.
Neonatal depression
Neonatal depression is poor newborn transition after birth, with signs such as ineffective breathing, poor tone, or persistent cyanosis.
Neonatal intensive care unit
A NICU is a hospital unit that provides intensive medical treatment and monitoring for newborns who need specialized care.
Neonatal physiology
Neonatal physiology is how a newborn’s developing body systems affect medicine absorption, effects, metabolism, and clearance.
Neonatal respiratory distress
Respiratory distress is breathing trouble that may include color change, nostril flaring, chest retractions, or pauses in breathing.
Neonatal transport
Neonatal transport is the specialized transfer of a newborn to another hospital or regional center that can provide the required level of care.
Neonatal warning signs
Newborn warning signs are symptoms requiring prompt help, including breathing difficulty, blue coloring, floppiness, poor responsiveness, or seizure-like activity.
Network status
A provider network is the group of clinicians, hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacies that participate in a health insurance plan.
Neural tube
The neural tube is an early embryonic structure that develops into the brain and spinal cord.
Neural tube defects
Neural tube defects are birth defects involving early development of the brain, spine, or spinal cord.
Neuraxial technique
A pain-relief procedure that delivers medicine near the spinal nerves to block labor pain.
Neurodevelopment
Neurodevelopment is the process through which the brain and nervous system build abilities such as movement, attention, language, and social understanding.
Neurological examination
A neurological examination checks nervous system functions such as tone, strength, reflexes, coordination, gait, and cranial nerve function.
Neuromuscular junction
A neuromuscular junction is the place where a motor nerve communicates with a muscle fiber to trigger muscle contraction.
Neuromuscular warm-up
A neuromuscular warm-up uses exercises for balance, agility, strength, landing, deceleration, and coordination before vigorous activity.
neuropsychological evaluation
A neuropsychological evaluation is a detailed assessment of thinking skills, learning, and behavior.
Newborn
A newborn is a baby in the early period after birth, when temperature control and vulnerability to infection require extra care.
Newborn assessment
A newborn assessment evaluates a baby’s breathing, circulation, temperature, muscle tone, responsiveness, feeding, and adaptation to life outside the uterus.
Newborn cardiopulmonary transition
Newborn cardiopulmonary transition is the shift from placental support to independent breathing and lung-based circulation immediately after birth.
Newborn care
Newborn care involves meeting an infant’s basic needs through feeding, sleep, hygiene, warmth, observation, and responsive caregiving.
Newborn feeding
Paced bottle feeding is a method that slows bottle feeding by using an upright position, a more horizontal bottle, and regular pauses.
Newborn feeding assessment
A pediatric feeding assessment is a clinical evaluation of a child's feeding difficulties, intake, swallowing, growth, and related needs.
Newborn feeding cues
Hunger cues are early behaviors that show a baby is ready to feed before crying begins.
Newborn feeding preferences
Newborn feeding preferences describe how parents want feeding support handled, including breastfeeding, chestfeeding, formula feeding, or supplementation.
Newborn hearing screening
Newborn hearing screening is an early hearing check used to help identify babies who may need further hearing review.
Newborn infection prevention
Newborn infection prevention means reducing an infant's contact with germs that can cause serious illness in early life.
newborn monitoring
Neonatal observation is short-term monitoring of a newborn for breathing, blood sugar, jaundice, feeding, infection, or alertness concerns.
newborn period
The early weeks after birth when a baby's sleep and feeding are still immature and care is often driven by cues.
Newborn rash with fever
A newborn rash with fever is a rash accompanied by elevated temperature, which can signal infection or another urgent medical problem.
Newborn reflexes
Newborn reflexes are automatic movements triggered by specific sensory stimuli that provide early information about neurological function and development.
Newborn resuscitation
Emergency care used to support a newborn who is not breathing normally or has inadequate circulation after birth.
Newborn screening
Newborn screening uses tests soon after birth to identify certain health conditions that may need follow-up evaluation or treatment.
Newborn Skin Folds
Skin folds are areas where adjoining skin touches, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and spaces behind the knees.
Newborn stabilization
Newborn stabilization is immediate care used to secure a baby’s breathing, circulation, and temperature before transfer or further treatment.
Newborn thermoregulation
Infant temperature regulation is a newborn’s ability to maintain a safe body temperature in changing environmental conditions.
Newborn transition
A transition routine is a predictable sequence of cues and steps that helps a child move between activities with less distress.
newborn transition assessment
Newborn transition assessment is the early check of a baby's breathing, color, tone, and response after birth.
Newborn visual development
Newborn visual development is the early maturation of the eyes, visual pathways, eye muscles, and brain networks for seeing.
Newborn weight loss
Newborn weight loss is the temporary reduction in weight after birth as fluid is excreted and feeding becomes established.
Nicotine dependence
Nicotine dependence is a medical condition in which nicotine use becomes difficult to stop without support and repeated attempts.
Nicotine withdrawal
Nicotine withdrawal is the group of physical and emotional symptoms that can occur after stopping nicotine use.
NICU admission
Transfer of a newborn to a neonatal intensive care unit for closer monitoring or specialized treatment after birth.
NICU discharge readiness
NICU discharge readiness means a newborn can breathe steadily, maintain temperature, feed adequately, and continue safely with an appropriate home-care plan.
Night feeding
Night weaning is the gradual reduction or ending of nighttime feeds when a baby is developmentally and medically ready.
Night waking
Night waking is waking during the night, sometimes repeatedly, and requiring substantial caregiver involvement to settle again.
Nipple stimulation
Nipple stimulation is stimulation of the nipples or breasts to encourage oxytocin release and uterine contractions.
Nipple trauma
A nipple injury is damage to nipple or areolar tissue, such as bruising, abrasion, cracking, bleeding, or a bite wound.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is an inhaled pain relief gas used during labor through a mask or mouthpiece for rapid, short-acting relief.
No-blame reporting
No-blame reporting is a family routine that helps children disclose harmful content or mistakes safely before consequences are discussed.
Nocturia
Waking at night to urinate more than once.
No, Go, Tell framework
A child safety routine in which a child says no when safe, moves away, and tells a trusted adult what happened.
Non-blanching rash
A rash whose red or purple spots do not fade when pressed and may indicate a serious condition requiring prompt assessment.
Non-cognitive skills
Non-cognitive skills are abilities such as persistence, attention control, planning, adaptability, and managing frustration that support learning and behavior.
Non-heme iron
Non-heme iron is plant-based or fortified iron whose absorption is influenced by other foods and dietary components.
Noninvasive prenatal testing
Cell-free DNA screening is a prenatal blood test that analyzes fetal genetic material in maternal blood to screen for certain chromosomal conditions.
Non-ionizing radiation
Radiation that does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms, so it is far less likely to cause tissue damage.
Non-medicated postpartum care
Recovery support after birth that uses comfort measures and practical care instead of pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medicines.
Non-Newtonian fluid
A fluid whose flow changes when force is applied, so it can seem solid when pressed and runny when left alone.
Non-nutritive sucking
Non-nutritive sucking is sucking that provides calming or regulation without serving primarily to deliver nutrition.
Nonpharmacologic comfort measures
Comfort strategies that do not use medication, such as breathing support, movement, positioning, warmth, massage, and water therapy.
Nonpharmacologic pain relief
Nonpharmacologic pain coping strategies are comfort techniques that manage labor discomfort without medication, including movement, warmth, breathing, massage, and relaxation.
Non-rapid eye movement sleep
Non-rapid eye movement sleep is a sleep state that generally progresses from lighter sleep toward deeper sleep.
Nonreassuring fetal heart rate
Signs that a fetus may not be tolerating labor well and may need urgent treatment or delivery.
Non-routine problem
A non-routine problem requires discovering a new strategy, interpreting unfamiliar information, or adapting when a usual method no longer works.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug is a medicine that reduces inflammation and can also relieve pain and fever.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine used to relieve pain and fever, but it is not suitable for every infant.
nonverbal communication
Nonverbal communication is communication through cues such as facial expression, posture, eye contact, physical distance, silence, and behavior.
Nuchal cord
A nuchal cord occurs when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby’s neck before or during birth.
Nuchal translucency
Nuchal translucency is an ultrasound measurement used with maternal age and blood markers in first-trimester chromosomal screening.
Nulliparity
Nulliparity means giving birth for the first time and may be associated with a higher chance of transfer during birth center labor.
nursing pillow
A nursing pillow is a shaped cushion that supports an infant at a comfortable height during supervised breast or bottle feeding.
nutrient density
A measure of how much useful nutrition a food provides relative to its calories or portion size.
Nutrient displacement
Nutrient displacement is when restrictive eating crowds out foods that provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other needed nutrients.
O
Object-based attention
An infant attention skill in which babies focus on whole objects rather than only separate visual points or features.
Object-based visual attention
Object-based visual attention is when an infant's attention is organized by whole objects rather than only locations or bright spots.
Object Dropping
Throwing behavior is a common early childhood action that can reflect exploration, motor practice, and testing what happens next.
Object fascination
A form of infant exploration where babies use objects to learn about movement, texture, sound, cause and effect, and social response.
Object permanence
The developing understanding that an object continues to exist even when it is temporarily out of sight.
Object recognition
Object recognition is the brain's ability to identify something as familiar or meaningful from visual information.
Observation
A treatment approach where mild ear infections are monitored closely with comfort care before starting antibiotics.
Observational learning
Observational learning occurs when children develop skills by watching adults notice boundaries, respond calmly, and protect people or animals.
Observational study
A study that looks for links between an exposure and an outcome without assigning treatment, so it cannot prove cause and effect.
Obstetric anal sphincter injury
Severe perineal trauma refers to deeper birth tears involving the anal sphincter and sometimes the rectal lining.
Obstetric early warning score
A structured maternity monitoring score that combines vital signs and clinical concerns to prompt reassessment or escalation.
Obstetrician
An obstetrician is a physician who specializes in pregnancy and birth, especially when complications or higher-risk care are involved.
Obstructive sleep apnea
Sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing during sleep and may require medical evaluation when repeatedly observed in a baby.
Occiput anterior
A fetal head position in which the back of the baby’s head faces the front of the birthing person’s pelvis.
Occiput-anterior position
A fetal head position in which the back of the baby's head faces forward, often fitting the pelvic curve efficiently.
Occiput posterior position
Occiput posterior position is a fetal head position in which the back of the baby's head faces the birthing person's back.
Occiput transverse position
A fetal head position where the baby’s head is sideways in the pelvis during labor.
occupational health assessment
An occupational health assessment reviews job demands and health needs to recommend practical work restrictions or adjustments.
Occupational therapy
A health professional who helps people improve daily activities, including play, motor skills, and sensory adaptations.
Odor intolerance
A heightened reaction to smells that makes ordinary odors feel overwhelming and trigger symptoms like nausea or headache.
Oligohydramnios
Low amniotic fluid during pregnancy, which may signal placental problems or raise concerns during labor.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats found in foods such as fish that contribute useful nutrients during pregnancy.
One-on-one time
One-on-one time is predictable, focused attention shared between a caregiver and an older child without competing demands.
one-sided friendship
A friendship in which one child does most of the adjusting, apologizing, and worrying while the other sets the terms.
One-time passcode
A one-time passcode is a temporary security code used to access or verify an account, and it should not be shared.
Online safety
Practices that help protect children from harmful content, harassment, coercive contact, privacy risks, and unsafe online interactions.
Online scam
An online scam is a deceptive digital message, offer, or contact that tricks someone into unsafe actions or sharing sensitive information.
Online sexual coercion
Online sexual coercion is pressure, threats, secrecy, or manipulation used to obtain sexual images or contact from a child.
Onycholysis
Onycholysis is partial separation of the nail from the nail bed.
Onychoschizia
Onychoschizia is peeling or layered splitting of the nail edge that can make nails feel thin or fragile.
oocyst
A hardy parasite stage shed in cat feces that becomes infectious only after it has had time to develop.
Oocyte quality
Oocyte quality describes how likely an egg is to develop normally after fertilization and support a healthy embryo.
Open neural tube defect
A birth defect in which the baby's brain or spinal cord does not fully close during early development.
opioid use disorder
A condition in which opioid use becomes compulsive and harmful, often requiring ongoing medical treatment.
Optimism bias
Optimism bias is the tendency to expect things to go well, which can make unexpected complications feel especially abrupt.
Oral burn
An oral burn is an injury to the mouth caused by feeding milk that contains excessively hot areas.
Oral clefts
Oral clefts are birth defects where the lip or roof of the mouth does not form completely.
Oral exploration
Oral exploration is a normal developmental behavior in which babies learn about objects by putting them in their mouths.
Oral glucose tolerance test
A diagnostic test that measures blood sugar after fasting and after drinking glucose to confirm gestational diabetes.
Oral hygiene
Oral hygiene is the cleaning of the mouth, gums, and teeth to prevent buildup and support dental health.
Oral-motor skills
The development of mouth, tongue, and chewing-like movements needed to safely manage foods with increasingly complex textures.
Oral presentation
A structured talk in which a child shares researched information, ideas, or explanations aloud with an audience.
Oral rehydration solution
Oral rehydration solution is a liquid used to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through vomiting or diarrhea when medically appropriate.
Oral syringe
An oral syringe is a measuring device used to deliver liquid medicine accurately by mouth.
oral thrush
Oral thrush is a mouth infection that can cause feeding refusal or discomfort in infants.
Organogenesis
Organogenesis is the developmental process during which a fetus’s major organs form, primarily during early pregnancy.
Orgasm
Orgasm is the peak of sexual pleasure and release during sexual activity.
Orienting reflex
An automatic response where a baby turns or shifts attention toward a noteworthy sound or stimulus.
Orthostatic hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure when standing up that can cause dizziness or fainting.
Ossification
Ossification is the process in which developing cartilage is gradually replaced by bone.
Otitis externa
An infection or inflammation of the ear canal that is treated differently from a middle-ear infection.
Otitis media with effusion
Fluid behind the eardrum without the same signs of an active acute ear infection.
Otoacoustic emissions testing
Otoacoustic emissions testing measures sounds produced by the inner ear after it receives a sound stimulus.
Otoscope
An otoscope is a medical tool clinicians use to look into the ear and examine the eardrum.
Outcome goal
An outcome goal describes the result a child wants to achieve, such as improving a grade or completing a level of performance.
Outdoor play
Outdoor play is children’s play outside that encourages movement, exploration, social interaction, and emotional regulation in open spaces.
Outer ear
The outer ear is the visible part of the ear and surrounding skin that can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth.
Out-of-hospital delivery
An unplanned delivery that occurs outside the intended maternity setting, such as in a home, vehicle, public place, or emergency department entrance.
Out-of-pocket costs
Cost sharing is the portion of covered healthcare expenses that a family pays directly under its insurance plan.
Out-of-pocket maximum
An out-of-pocket maximum is the plan-defined limit on covered, in-network healthcare expenses a patient pays during a policy period.
Ovarian reserve
Ovarian reserve is the remaining pool of recruitable follicles and eggs available for ovulation and potential conception.
Overconfidence
Overconfidence is believing that a skill is stronger, a task is easier, or a danger is less significant than it really is.
Overfeeding
Overfeeding occurs when an infant consumes more milk than needed, often because fullness cues are overridden or milk continues flowing.
Overhead lifting
Overhead lifting means lifting or reaching with a load above shoulder level, which increases strain and balance demands.
Overheating
Overheating occurs when the body becomes excessively warm, often causing sweating, flushed skin, discomfort, or disturbed sleep.
Overprotection
Overprotection is parenting or caregiving that goes beyond real safety needs and limits a child’s normal independence and social practice.
Overstimulation
Sensory overload occurs when noise, light, crowds, textures, smells, touch, or transitions overwhelm a child’s ability to cope.
over-the-counter medicine
A medicine you can buy without a prescription, which should still be checked before use in pregnancy.
Overtiredness
A state caused by staying awake beyond a baby's comfortable tolerance, often leading to irritability and difficulty calming.
Overuse
A birth intervention unlikely to improve outcomes in the specific clinical situation enough to justify its risks or burdens.
Overuse injury
An overuse injury develops when repeated physical stress exceeds a young athlete’s ability to recover and adapt.
Ovulation
Ovulation is the release of an egg from an ovary, typically occurring around the second week of gestational age.
Ovulation induction
The use of fertility medicine to stimulate the ovaries and help time the release of one or more eggs.
Ovulation predictor kit
An ovulation predictor kit is a home urine test that detects a rise in luteinizing hormone before ovulation.
oxytocin
Oxytocin is a hormone released during nipple stimulation that causes breast tissue contractions involved in ejecting milk.
Oxytocin augmentation
Oxytocin augmentation uses the hormone oxytocin to strengthen or coordinate contractions when labor progress is inadequate.
P
Pacifier
A nipple-shaped device that soothes a baby and should be cleaned after falling on the floor or becoming dirty.
Pacing
Pacing is balancing activity with rest so doing too much during easier moments does not worsen pain later.
pain cry
A pain cry is an unusual infant cry that may be sudden, sharp, high-pitched, intense, or difficult to soothe and can signal discomfort.
Painful penetration
Pain during sexual intercourse that may follow perineal injury, scar discomfort, pelvic-floor overactivity, dryness, infection, or nerve irritation.
Pain-tension-fear cycle
A labor coping pattern where pain increases fear, fear increases muscle tension, and tension makes contractions harder to tolerate.
Palmar grasp reflex
A palmar grasp is an early hand skill in which a baby closes the whole hand around a piece of food.
Panic attack
A sudden episode of intense fear or physical distress that can happen during pregnancy and may need medical attention if persistent or severe.
Pap smear
A screening test that collects cells from the cervix to check for cervical cancer or precancerous changes.
Parallax error
A measurement mistake that occurs when viewing a liquid level from an angle instead of directly at eye level.
parallel play
A play style in which children play near each other but do not yet coordinate a common activity for long.
Parallel testing
Parallel testing is when two or more tests are done at the same time to answer the question faster or from different angles.
Parental Consent
Parental consent is a parent’s verified permission for an online service to collect, use, or disclose a child’s personal information.
Parental controls
Parental controls are tools that help adults limit purchases, downloads, mature content, contact, and device use times.
Parental emotional attunement
Parental emotional attunement is a caregiver's increasingly accurate understanding of what an infant may be communicating.
Parental expectations
Parental expectations are caregivers’ beliefs and communicated standards about how children will learn, behave, develop, and handle responsibilities.
Parental involvement
Parent involvement is the ways parents and caregivers support a child’s learning, relationships, well-being, and participation in school.
Parental modeling
The way children learn habits and expectations by watching how parents and caregivers behave with technology and daily routines.
Parental monitoring
Parental monitoring is age-appropriate caregiver awareness of a child’s activities, contacts, purchases, safety, and routines.
Parenteral nutrition
Nutrition delivered through a venous line when feeding by mouth or through the gut is inadequate or impossible.
Parentification
Parentification is placing emotional or practical caregiving responsibilities on a child that should be handled by an adult.
Parent mediation
A parenting approach in which an adult helps stop unsafe behavior, slow the conflict, and guide children toward a solution.
Parent-teacher conference
A planned conversation among school staff, caregivers, and sometimes a child about learning, concerns, strengths, and needed support.
Parity
Parity describes whether a person has experienced previous pregnancies, which can affect abdominal wall stretching and pregnancy appearance.
Partner stress
Stress a birth partner feels during labor when trying to support the birthing person, follow changes, and communicate under pressure.
Partogram
A structured labor record used to track fetal, maternal, and labor progress findings over time.
Passive immunity
Temporary protection passed from mother to baby through antibodies before the infant can receive many vaccines.
Passphrase
A password made from several words, often easier for children to remember than random symbols.
Password manager
A password manager is a tool that helps families create and store unique, strong passwords for different accounts.
Pasteurization
Pasteurization is a process that heats food or drink to kill harmful bacteria and make it safer.
pasteurized eggs
Eggs that have been heated enough to reduce harmful germs while staying liquid or intact.
Patch testing
Patch testing is trying a small amount of product on a limited area of skin to look for irritation.
Pat-down
A manual screening in which security staff use their hands to check for concealed objects.
Patient-controlled epidural analgesia
A dosing method where the laboring person can press a button for preset epidural medication doses within safety limits.
Patient-reported complications
Complications or recovery problems described by the patient, including symptoms or burdens that may not fit clinician-defined categories.
Patient responsibility
Patient responsibility is the portion of a healthcare bill assigned to the family after insurance payment and benefit rules are applied.
Patient rights
Patient rights are protections that let patients be informed, participate in decisions, refuse care, and receive respectful treatment.
Patient rights during labor
Patient rights during labor include the ability to understand, accept, decline, or question exams, medications, monitoring, and procedures.
Patient safety culture
Patient safety culture describes how a care team supports safety through staffing, communication, reporting, teamwork, and response to errors.
Peanut ball
A peanut-shaped support cushion used to help position the legs and hips during labor or rest.
Pedestrian safety
Practices that help children and dogs avoid traffic dangers when walking near driveways, crossings, and roads.
Pedestrian signal
A traffic signal that tells pedestrians when to wait or cross, although children must still check for approaching vehicles.
Pediatric Growth Chart
A growth chart is a standardized reference used to track an infant’s weight, length, and head circumference over time.
Pediatrician
A physician whose specialty training focuses on caring for children from birth through adolescence.
Pediatric referral
A request from a clinician for a child to see a specialist about a specific symptom, test result, or concern.
Pediatric specialist
A pediatric specialist is a clinician with expertise in a child-focused medical specialty or specific infant condition.
Pediatric specialist appointment
A visit with a child health specialist for focused evaluation, monitoring, or treatment of a specific concern.
Pediatric Telephone Triage
A clinical assessment process that helps determine whether a child needs home monitoring, an appointment, urgent care, or emergency evaluation.
peer contagion
The spread or intensification of problem behaviors among children through group interaction.
peer group
A clique is a small, tightly knit social group that can become harmful when it is rigid, exclusive, or controlling.
peer-group entry
The process of joining a group of children who are already playing together.
peer influence
The way children change their thoughts, emotions, or behavior in response to friends, classmates, teammates, or online groups.
peer play
Social play is play that helps children practice communication, cooperation, turn-taking, rule negotiation, and handling emotions with others.
Peer pressure
Peer pressure is social influence from other children or teens that can push a child to act against their better judgment.
Peer relationship
A relationship between children involving companionship, reciprocal interest, trust, respect, emotional support, and reasonably balanced participation.
peer relationships
The everyday process of children communicating, playing, cooperating, and responding to one another while developing social, emotional, and cognitive skills.
pelvic circles
A slow circular movement of the pelvis used to create rhythmic mobility while seated or standing.
Pelvic floor
A group of muscles and supporting tissues that help maintain continence and support pelvic function during pregnancy and daily activities.
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction is impaired function of the muscles that support pelvic organs and help control bladder and bowel function.
Pelvic floor exercises
Exercises that train the pelvic-floor muscles through coordinated contraction and relaxation with breathing.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy
Individualized therapy that assesses and treats pelvic floor symptoms affecting continence, pressure, pain, bowel function, or bladder function.
Pelvic floor rehabilitation
Individualized therapy using muscle training, bladder and bowel strategies, scar care, and treatment of musculoskeletal factors after pelvic-floor injury.
Pelvic floor relaxation
Pelvic floor relaxation is the ability to release muscle tension and return the pelvic floor to its resting length after contraction.
Pelvic floor symptoms
Bladder, bowel, pain, heaviness, or bulging symptoms that can occur when pelvic floor tissues are strained after birth.
Pelvic girdle pain
Pain around the pelvic joints that can make certain labor or birth positions harder to tolerate.
Pelvic mobility
The ability to move and adjust the pelvis during labor, which may support comfort, position changes, and progress.
Pelvic organ mobility
Increased movement of pelvic organs after childbirth, which may contribute to pressure, heaviness, leakage, or exercise intolerance.
Pelvic outlet
The lower opening of the pelvis that the baby passes through during birth.
Pelvic pressure
A feeling of heaviness, fullness, or aching in the pubic or vaginal area caused by stretching ligaments and increasing fetal weight.
Pelvic rest
Pelvic rest is a clinician-directed restriction on some or all sexual or vaginal activities during pregnancy.
pelvic tilt
A gentle movement that shifts the pelvis forward and backward to encourage comfortable mobility.
Pelvis
The lower body structure that supports the trunk and helps organize balance during sitting and other movements.
Perceived Control
Perceived control is the feeling of being informed, having available choices, and knowing that personal preferences are considered.
perceived exertion
A subjective rating of how hard exercise feels to your body at the moment during activity.
Percentage weight change
Percentage weight change compares a newborn's current weight with birth weight to describe the relative loss or gain.
Percentile
A percentile shows how a child’s measurement compares with measurements from a reference population of children the same age and sex.
Percentile Crossing
Percentile crossing is movement across growth-chart percentile lines that may require evaluation when persistent or substantial.
Perception-action learning
Perception-action learning is the process by which infants learn that their movements can change what they see, feel, or hear.
Percutaneous absorption
Dermal absorption is the passage of a substance through the skin into the body’s tissues or bloodstream.
Perfectionism
Perfectionism is a strong need to meet very high standards that can make mistakes or imperfect work feel unacceptable.
performing arts
Performing arts are activities like music, choir, dance, and drama that involve structured creative expression before an audience.
Perinatal anxiety
Anxiety that develops during pregnancy or the postpartum period.
Perinatal depression
Depression that occurs during pregnancy or after birth.
Perinatal episode
The full period of pregnancy, birth, newborn evaluation, and postpartum care considered together for planning.
perinatal mental health
The connection between a child’s emotional wellbeing, relationships, school life, and behavior.
Perinatal mental health care
Perinatal mental health care provides psychological assessment and treatment during pregnancy and the period surrounding birth.
Perinatal mental health screening
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a validated questionnaire clinicians use to screen for depressive symptoms after childbirth.
Perinatal mortality
Death around the time of birth, used as one measure of how safe a birth setting is.
Perineal care
Perineal care is gentle cleansing and regular maternity-pad changing after vaginal birth to support hygiene, comfort, and recovery.
Perineal massage
Perineal massage is gentle stretching and massage of the lower vaginal opening in late pregnancy to prepare tissues for birth.
Perineal pain
Pain in the tissues between the vagina and anus that can affect walking, sitting, urination, and bowel movements after birth.
Perineal support
Hands-on support of the perineum and baby’s head during birth to help slow delivery and reduce tissue strain.
Perineal swelling
Perineal swelling is swelling in the area between the vagina and anus that can occur after vaginal birth.
Perineal trauma
Injury to the tissues around the vaginal and perineal area that occurs during childbirth and may require healing and follow-up.
Perineal wound infection
An infection affecting a perineal repair or wound, often associated with increasing redness, heat, swelling, separation, or foul-smelling discharge.
Perineum
The perineum is the area of tissue between the vaginal opening and anus that stretches during childbirth.
Periodic breathing
Periodic breathing is an irregular newborn breathing pattern with brief pauses followed by faster or deeper breaths.
Perioral dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is inflammation around the mouth that may cause clearly red, raised areas on the surrounding skin.
Perioral irritation
Redness or irritation around the mouth caused by frequent wiping or friction.
Peripheral circulation
Peripheral circulation is blood flow to the body's extremities, such as the hands and feet, which may normally feel cooler.
Persistent diarrhea
Persistent diarrhea is diarrhea lasting 14 days or longer and should be evaluated for ongoing illness or nutrition concerns.
Personal hygiene
Personal hygiene is routine cleaning and care of the body to maintain comfort, dignity, and cleanliness before and during labor.
Personal Information
Personal information is identifying data about a child that can be combined to create a digital profile or cause harm.
personality
A person’s broader, more stable pattern of traits, habits, and ways of relating to the world.
perspective-taking
The ability to understand another person's point of view, thoughts, or feelings.
Persuasive design
Persuasive design uses features like urgency, emotion, editing, popularity, or social pressure to influence what children believe or do.
Pertussis
A contagious bacterial respiratory infection also known as whooping cough.
Petrolatum
Petrolatum is a greasy ointment base that forms a protective barrier and helps keep moisture in the skin.
Pharmacokinetics
The study of how the body absorbs, distributes, processes, and removes a medicine after it is given.
Phased return to school
A gradual plan for resuming school attendance by starting with shorter days, selected lessons, or fewer days each week.
Phased return to work
A gradual return to work with lighter duties, shorter days, or a staged increase in workload after leave.
pH-balanced
Formulated to stay near the skin's natural acidity so it is less likely to irritate or dry out the skin.
Phishing
Phishing is an online trick that uses fake messages or pages to get someone to share passwords, codes, money, or personal information.
Phonation
Phonation is the production of voiced sound when airflow passes through vibrating vocal folds in the larynx.
phonological awareness
An awareness of speech sounds and sound patterns that supports later speech and literacy.
Photoprotection
Steps used to protect skin from light exposure, especially sunlight and visible light.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is a treatment used for newborn jaundice when bilirubin levels require medical management.
phthalates
Phthalates are fragrance-related chemicals in some personal-care products that have raised concern because they may affect hormones.
Physical activity
Body movement such as walking, cycling, dancing, sports, or free play that supports children’s cardiovascular and overall health.
Physical play
Movement-based play such as running, climbing, jumping, and balancing that builds the body and brain.
physician
A physician is a medical doctor who can lead clinical care and make medical decisions during labor and birth.
Physiologic desquamation
Physiologic desquamation is the normal shedding of superficial epidermal cells as newborn skin adapts after birth.
Physiologic insulin resistance
Physiologic insulin resistance is the normal pregnancy-related reduction in insulin sensitivity that helps keep more glucose available for the fetus.
Pica
A condition involving cravings for non-food items, which in pregnancy may be linked with iron deficiency or other concerns.
Picky eating
Selective eating with a very limited range of accepted foods, often avoiding new or unfamiliar foods.
Pincer grasp
A pincer grasp uses the thumb and index finger together to pick up and control small objects.
Pink eye
Pink eye is inflammation of the conjunctiva that causes eye redness, tearing, discharge, swelling, or irritation.
Placement review
A placement review is a formal reconsideration of whether a child’s current class or instructional level meets their educational and well-being needs.
Placenta
The placenta is a pregnancy organ that develops early and produces hormones while supporting the pregnancy and placental circulation.
Placenta accreta spectrum
A group of conditions in which the placenta grows abnormally into or through the uterine wall and can cause severe bleeding.
Placenta adherens
Placenta adherens is retained placenta caused when the placenta does not fully separate from the uterine wall after birth.
Placental abruption
Placental abruption is premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, which can turn labor into a medical emergency.
Placental aging
The normal biological changes the placenta undergoes as pregnancy advances, including more fibrotic and mineralized tissue.
Placental calcification
Mineral deposits in placental tissue that can appear on ultrasound, often reflecting normal placental maturation near term.
Placental insufficiency
Placental insufficiency is when the placenta is underperforming and may not support the baby well enough.
Placental transfusion
Placental transfusion is the continued movement of blood between the placenta and newborn during the brief period after birth.
Placenta previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta covers or lies very close to the cervix, increasing the risk of bleeding.
planning
The ability to think ahead, choose steps, and decide what to do before acting.
Plantar grasp reflex
The plantar grasp reflex is an automatic flexion of a newborn’s toes when the sole of the foot is stimulated.
Plaque
Plaque is a buildup of bacteria on teeth and gums that can cause gum inflammation when it is not removed by cleaning.
Platelet antibody testing
Platelet antibody testing looks for antibodies that bind to platelets and may help explain immune platelet problems.
Platelets
Platelets are blood cell fragments that help form clots and limit bleeding.
Platelet transfusion refractoriness
Platelet transfusion refractoriness means platelet transfusions do not raise the platelet count as expected.
Play
Child-led activity that helps children explore, learn, and practice skills in natural, motivating ways.
Playdate
A playdate is a planned time when two children spend time together to play and practice social interaction.
Playground injury prevention
Fall prevention involves identifying and reducing hazards that could cause a child to slip, trip, lose balance, or fall in a restroom.
play yard
A portable enclosed baby area that may provide a designated space for play or approved travel sleep.
Pneumonia
A lower lung infection or inflammation that can cause wheezing when it affects the baby’s lower airways.
poisoning
Chemical poisoning occurs when a child is harmed by swallowing, touching, or otherwise being exposed to a hazardous chemical product.
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular cycles and make ovulation or conception more difficult.
Polycythemia
Polycythemia is a higher-than-usual hematocrit or hemoglobin concentration from increased red blood cell volume.
Pool fencing
Pool fencing is a maintained physical barrier that separates a pool from the house and play areas and limits unsupervised access.
Poor weight gain
A growth pattern in which a child's weight or overall growth is not following the expected trajectory over time.
Portable crib
A portable crib is a foldable, contained sleep space designed and approved to provide an infant with a safe sleep surface while away from home.
Positional asphyxia
Positional asphyxia occurs when an infant's body position partially obstructs the airway and interferes with breathing.
Positive birth experience
A childbirth experience that feels meaningful and satisfactory to the individual, regardless of delivery method or whether medical interventions were used.
Positive childhood experiences
Positive childhood experiences are supportive relationships, activities, and safe communities that promote belonging, cooperation, and healthy development.
Positive predictive value
Positive-pressure ventilation helps a newborn breathe by delivering air through a face mask or another airway device when breathing is inadequate.
Positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is attention, appreciation, or feedback that makes responsible behavior more likely to happen again.
Post-anesthesia care unit
A post-anesthesia care unit is a recovery area where clinicians monitor vital signs, alertness, pain, bleeding, breathing, and anesthesia effects after surgery.
Post-anesthesia recovery
Post-anesthesia recovery is the period of observation after anesthesia when breathing, consciousness, circulation, pain, movement, sensation, and medication effects are assessed.
Post-dural puncture headache
A severe headache that can happen after accidental puncture near the spinal covering and often changes with body position.
Post-marketing surveillance
Monitoring of a vaccine after it is licensed to find rare safety problems and track its real-world effects.
Postnatal euphoria
Postnatal euphoria is a temporary surge of positive emotion, energy, or connection that can occur during the early period after childbirth.
Postnatal post-traumatic stress symptoms
Postnatal post-traumatic stress symptoms are distressing reactions after birth such as intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, panic, or emotional numbness.
Postoperative mobility
Early ambulation is medically supervised movement soon after surgery to promote circulation, support bowel function, reduce stiffness, and help prevent blood clots.
Postoperative pain control
Pain relief includes nonmedication and medication approaches used to reduce or manage discomfort during labor and birth.
postpartum anxiety
Postpartum anxiety is excessive or persistent anxiety after childbirth that can interfere with sleep, functioning, emotional regulation, and safe caregiving.
Postpartum birth debrief
A postpartum birth debrief is a discussion with a clinician to review the birth timeline, decisions, consent, questions, and follow-up needs.
Postpartum depression
A depression that can occur after birth and may affect caregiver wellbeing and the family’s ability to adapt.
Postpartum emotional recovery
The emotional adjustment after birth as a person processes events, heals physically, and rebuilds confidence.
Postpartum family support
Postpartum family support is practical, emotional, and caregiving assistance provided by partners and relatives after childbirth.
Postpartum fatigue
Extreme tiredness after birth that can be affected by blood loss, pain, infection, anemia, sleep loss, and recovery demands.
postpartum follow-up
Planned medical review after childbirth to assess healing, symptoms, blood pressure, feeding, pain, contraception, and recovery needs.
Postpartum glucose testing
Glucose testing after delivery to check recovery and future diabetes risk after gestational diabetes.
Postpartum hemorrhage
Heavy blood loss after childbirth that can cause weakness, dizziness, fainting, or other symptoms requiring urgent medical care.
Postpartum infection
Postpartum infection is an infection after birth that may affect the uterus, incision, urinary tract, or deeper tissues.
Postpartum length of stay
The time from birth until discharge, used as a structured observation period for parent and newborn stability.
Postpartum meal prep
Postpartum meal prep is planning and preparing simple meals, snacks, and drinks before birth for easier eating after delivery.
Postpartum mental health conditions
Mental health conditions that occur during pregnancy or after birth and can affect mood, anxiety, safety, and daily functioning.
Postpartum mental health emergency
A postpartum mental health emergency is a severe psychological disturbance after birth, such as hallucinations, confusion, paranoia, or thoughts of harm.
Postpartum mental health warning signs
Severe mood, thought, sleep, or safety symptoms after birth that require urgent professional mental health support.
Postpartum mobility
Postpartum mobility is safe, supported movement after birth, such as changing position, sitting up, or standing with assistance when appropriate.
Postpartum mood disorder
A postpartum mood disorder is a mental health condition after childbirth that causes persistent or disruptive changes in mood, thinking, or behavior.
Postpartum pain
Pain experienced after giving birth.
Postpartum period
The fourth trimester is the first three months after birth, when a newborn adapts to breathing, feeding, temperature, sleep, and caregiving.
Postpartum preeclampsia
Preeclampsia that worsens or first becomes apparent after birth and still requires monitoring and treatment.
Postpartum psychosis
A rare but serious postpartum mental-health emergency that can involve confusion, hallucinations, or delusions.
postpartum recovery
Postpartum recovery is the period of physical healing and adjustment after childbirth.
Postpartum rehabilitation
Professional recovery support after childbirth that may include physiotherapy, load modification, pain care, and gradual return to activity.
postpartum relapse prevention
A plan made after birth to reduce the risk of returning to substance use and to support ongoing recovery.
Postpartum support
Postnatal care is coordinated support and clinical follow-up for the birthing parent and newborn during the period after birth.
Postpartum support plan
A postpartum support plan outlines practical help after birth, including meals, household tasks, transportation, visitor boundaries, and wellbeing check-ins.
Postpartum telogen effluvium
Postpartum telogen effluvium is temporary diffuse hair shedding after delivery as many follicles enter the shedding phase together.
Postpartum thyroiditis
Postpartum thyroiditis is thyroid inflammation after childbirth that can cause temporary hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or both.
Postpartum warning signs
Postpartum warning signs are physical or mental symptoms after childbirth that require prompt or emergency professional assessment.
Post-term pregnancy
A pregnancy that reaches 42 weeks or more, beyond the late-term period and expected due-date range.
Post-test probability
Post-test probability is the chance of a condition after a test result is known.
Post-transfusion purpura
Post-transfusion purpura is a rare reaction in which antibodies cause a sudden severe drop in platelets after transfusion.
Post-traumatic stress disorder
A trauma-related condition that can involve intrusive memories, avoidance, panic, and distress that persists or interferes with functioning.
Postural control
Head and trunk control is the ability to hold the head and torso steady while sitting upright.
Potable water
Water that is safe to drink and suitable for cleaning items that may go into a baby's mouth.
Potassium
A mineral that supports normal muscle and nerve function and helps balance fluids in the body.
power imbalance
A relationship situation where one child has more influence or control than the other.
Pragmatic language
The social use of language, such as knowing how to ask, respond, and take turns in conversation.
Pre-analytic variables
Pre-analytic variables are factors before a test sample is collected that can change the result.
Precaution
A precaution is information about a medication risk that calls for careful professional review rather than automatic avoidance.
Precipitous labor
Labor that progresses unusually quickly, with contractions, cervical dilation, and the urge to push developing faster than expected.
Preconception
The time before pregnancy when you can plan vaccines and other preventive care ahead of conception.
Preconception counseling
Preconception care is medical planning before pregnancy to review risks, medications, health conditions, and supplements.
Preconception period
The preconception period is the time before pregnancy when health changes can reduce risks before conception and early development.
Prediabetes
A blood sugar level that is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
Preeclampsia with severe features
Preeclampsia with severe features is a dangerous pregnancy-related condition that can cause severe headache, vision changes, pain, breathing problems, or seizures.
Pregnancy calendar
A week-by-week guide that organizes pregnancy changes, fetal development, health recommendations, and preparation for birth.
Pregnancy calorie needs
The amount of energy needed during pregnancy, which usually rises modestly after the first trimester rather than doubling.
Pregnancy cravings
Strong urges to eat particular foods or textures that commonly occur during pregnancy and often vary over time.
Pregnancy escalation plan
Clear instructions about warning signs, follow-up, and when to seek additional care if a child's condition changes.
Pregnancy gingivitis
Pregnancy gingivitis is gum inflammation during pregnancy that can cause swelling and bleeding because of hormonal changes.
Pregnancy glow
A noticeable brighter or fresher-looking complexion that some people experience during pregnancy, but it is not guaranteed or medically universal.
Pregnancy nausea
Morning sickness is pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting that can occur at any time of day, especially during early pregnancy.
Pregnancy of unknown location
A positive pregnancy test with no pregnancy seen yet on ultrasound, requiring follow-up.
Pregnancy pillow
A specially shaped support pillow that can help keep a pregnant person comfortable while side sleeping.
pregnancy-related illness
An illness linked to pregnancy that can affect work, leave timing, and the need for medical review.
Pregnancy spacing
Pregnancy spacing is the time between pregnancies, discussed after cesarean to support recovery and reduce complication risk.
pregnancy weight gain
Weight gained during pregnancy from fetal growth, placenta, fluids, blood volume, tissue changes, and maternal energy stores.
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
A United States law requiring covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations for known pregnancy-related limitations unless they cause undue hardship.
Prelinguistic period
The prelinguistic period is the developmental stage when infants communicate with sounds and gestures before using reliable spoken words.
Premature placental calcification
Significant placental calcification seen before 36 weeks of pregnancy, which may call for closer monitoring.
Premium
A premium is a recurring payment required to maintain health insurance coverage, whether or not medical care is used.
Prenatal attachment
The emotional bond between a pregnant person and fetus, which can develop gradually during pregnancy.
Prenatal care
Structured medical follow-up during pregnancy that monitors maternal health, fetal growth, and pregnancy-related risks through birth.
prenatal care risk assessment
A review used to decide how often prenatal visits should happen and whether specialist care is needed.
Prenatal diagnostic test
Diagnostic testing uses procedures to provide more definitive information about certain fetal conditions, though some procedures may carry risks.
Prenatal education class
A prenatal education class helps expectant parents learn about labor facilities, monitoring, birth procedures, infant feeding, and discharge before birth.
prenatal mental health assessment
A prenatal mental health assessment is a clinician's evaluation of emotional symptoms, triggers, duration, and impact during pregnancy.
Prenatal monitoring
Repeated checks during pregnancy used to establish a baseline, watch for change, and see whether treatment is working.
Prenatal nutrition
Prenatal nutrition is the planned intake of energy, protein, fluids, and micronutrients needed to support pregnancy, birth preparation, and postpartum recovery.
Prenatal risk review
Prenatal risk assessment is a repeated review of factors that may raise the chance of pregnancy, fetal, or newborn complications.
Prenatal screening test
Prenatal genetic screening estimates the chance that a fetus has certain chromosomal conditions without providing a definitive diagnosis.
Prenatal stress
Stress experienced during pregnancy that can influence maternal physiology and is associated with some pregnancy outcomes.
Prenatal stress response
The body and mind’s ongoing reaction to pregnancy-related stress that may not fully switch off.
Prenatal stretching
Gentle stretching done during pregnancy to help with comfort, mobility, and everyday stiffness.
Prenatal visit
A scheduled pregnancy checkup where a clinician reviews health, symptoms, and the baby’s progress.
Prenatal vitamin
A supplement used during pregnancy to help fill nutrient gaps, though it does not replace balanced meals.
Prenatal yoga
Yoga adapted for pregnancy with modifications that account for changing anatomy and balance.
Preparticipation physical evaluation
A preparticipation physical evaluation reviews a child’s medical history, injuries, symptoms, and needs before sports participation.
Preschool adaptation
School adjustment is the gradual process of becoming comfortable with school routines, separation, communication, group participation, and daily expectations.
Prescribing cascade
A medication-related chain where a drug side effect is mistaken for a new illness and treated with another medication.
presenteeism
Presenteeism means being at work but functioning less effectively because symptoms or other health limits reduce performance.
Pressure injury
A pressure injury is tissue damage caused by sustained pressure that reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to a vulnerable area.
Presyncope
Presyncope is the near-fainting feeling that can happen with overheating, low blood pressure, or lightheadedness.
Preterm birth
Preterm birth occurs when a baby is born before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy and may require adjusted developmental expectations.
Preterm labor
Preterm labor is labor that begins before the pregnancy reaches full term and may involve regular contractions or cervical changes.
Preventive care
Preventive care includes routine services that help monitor health, prevent illness, and identify problems before they become serious.
Primary teeth
Primary teeth are a child’s first set of teeth, which usually begin to erupt during the first year of life.
Primary tooth eruption sequence
The usual order in which a baby’s first teeth appear, which can vary without meaning disease.
Primitive reflexes
Automatic newborn movement responses, such as startling, grasping, rooting, stepping-like movements, and tonic neck postures.
Prior authorization
Prior authorization is approval from an insurance plan that may be required before certain medical services, medications, or specialist visits are covered.
Privacy settings
Controls that manage what information an app or device can access, share, or make visible to others.
Private room
A single hospital maternity room used for labor or recovery that offers more privacy, rest, and control over visitors.
Problematic internet use
Problematic screen use is persistent, impairing screen behavior that remains difficult to modify despite consistent support.
Problematic social media use
Social media use that is linked to poorer mood, sleep, safety, or relationship quality rather than healthy connection.
problem-based learning
A teaching method that uses realistic problems with more than one possible solution so children practice reasoning.
problem-solving
Problem-solving is a stepwise process of identifying a difficulty, considering options, choosing a safe action, trying it, and reviewing the result.
Problem-solving play
Problem-solving play is everyday learning in which a baby tries actions, observes results, and adjusts attempts to reach a goal.
Procedural anxiety
Anxiety that happens during medical procedures, especially when someone feels exposed, watched, or unable to move freely.
Process art
A child-led art approach that values exploration, choices, and experimentation more than creating a specific finished product.
Processed food
A processed food is a food that has been altered from its natural form during preparation or manufacturing.
Process goal
A process goal describes a controllable action that supports learning, such as reviewing errors or submitting assignments on time.
processing speed
Processing speed is how quickly a person takes in, understands, and responds to information while completing a task.
Prodromal symptoms
Early, vague symptoms that can appear before a clearer or more serious illness develops.
Product-focused craft
An adult-directed art activity in which children follow prepared steps to make a recognizable, expected object.
Product recall
A manufacturer or government action to address a product that may be unsafe or defective.
Professional boundaries
Professional boundaries are limits that keep teacher-student relationships appropriate, transparent, safe, and connected to the educator’s role.
Progesterone
A pregnancy-related hormone that helps maintain the uterine lining and relaxes smooth muscle, contributing to several early symptoms.
Progressive muscle relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is a calming exercise that involves deliberately tensing and releasing muscle groups to reduce physical tension.
Progress monitoring
Progress monitoring is the regular collection and review of data to determine whether an educational intervention is helping.
prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone released in response to nipple stimulation that supports the breast’s synthesis of human milk.
Prolonged second stage
Prolonged second stage is when pushing and fetal descent continue longer than expected after the cervix is fully dilated.
Prolonged second stage of labor
A second stage of labor in which pushing continues longer than expected without enough descent or rotation of the baby.
Prone position
Stomach sleeping means an infant rests with the chest and abdomen facing downward during sleep.
proprioception
Proprioception is sensory information from muscles and joints that helps a child understand body position and movement.
prosocial behavior
Behaviors such as sharing, helping, and cooperating that support positive relationships.
Prospective cohort study
A study that follows a group forward in time to see whether people with a certain exposure have different outcomes.
prostaglandins
Prostaglandins are compounds used in induction to help soften the cervix and stimulate uterine activity.
Protected health information
Identifiable health information that privacy rules control when it is used, disclosed, documented, safeguarded, or communicated.
Protective equipment
Protective equipment is sport-specific gear designed to reduce injury risk when properly fitted, maintained, and worn as instructed.
Protective position
A protective position is a curled posture used after being knocked down to shield the head, face, and neck from injury.
Protective reactions
Protective reactions are automatic arm or body responses that help an infant reduce injury or recover balance during an unexpected loss of stability.
protein
A nutrient the body uses to build and repair tissues and support growth.
Proximity
Proximity is physical closeness that makes it easier for children to see each other, share activities, and keep friendships going.
Proximodistal development
Proximodistal development describes motor control progressing from the body’s central regions outward toward the arms, hands, and fingers.
Pruritus in pregnancy
Itching that happens during pregnancy and can range from simple dry-skin itch to a sign of a pregnancy-related condition.
psychoeducational evaluation
A psychoeducational evaluation assesses learning abilities and difficulties to clarify how a child learns and what support may be needed.
Psychological adjustment during pregnancy
A broad view of pregnancy adjustment that includes acceptance, role identity, relationships, labor preparation, self-esteem, and control.
Psychological comfort
A subjective sense of ease, safety, orientation, and trust that helps a person stay engaged during birth.
Psychological distress
A state of intense emotional suffering that may include panic, uncontrollable fear, confusion, dissociation, or difficulty participating in essential care.
Psychological safety
A sense of emotional safety that helps children admit problems and ask adults for help.
psychological stability
The ability to recover from stress and keep emotions, sleep, decisions, and daily functioning steady enough to manage life.
Psychological trauma
Psychological trauma is lasting emotional or mental distress associated with experiences of fear, helplessness, lack of safety, or violation.
psychosis
A severe mental health condition that can involve hallucinations, paranoia, confusion, or losing touch with reality.
Ptyalism gravidarum
Drooling is saliva flowing from the mouth onto nearby skin, commonly occurring in infancy during teething and oral development.
Pubic hair
Pubic hair is normal hair growing around the external genital area and does not indicate poor hygiene before childbirth.
Pubic hair removal
A process in which someone gradually builds trust or uses manipulation to normalize boundary violations and obtain secrecy, contact, images, or control.
Pudendal block
A pudendal nerve block is local anesthetic placed near pudendal nerves to numb parts of the perineum, vulva, and lower vagina.
Pulling to stand
Pulling to stand is a motor milestone in which a baby uses nearby support, such as crib slats, to rise from a lower position.
Pulmonary embolism
A blood clot in the lungs that can cause sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or collapse and is a medical emergency.
Pulse oximetry screening
Pulse oximetry screening compares oxygen saturation in a newborn's right hand and foot to help identify certain critical congenital heart defects.
Puncture wound
A puncture wound is a small opening caused by something sharp entering the skin and may involve deeper tissue or infection.
Puree
A smooth food preparation made by blending or finely processing ingredients until they have a soft, uniform consistency.
Puree feeding
Spoon-feeding is offering a baby food from a caregiver-held spoon while the baby accepts, removes, and swallows it.
Purified water
Water that has been treated to remove contaminants and is safer for infant feeding or cleaning.
Purulent discharge
Purulent discharge is thick pus-like fluid, often yellow, green, or white, that may come from an infected eye.
pushing technique
The way a person coordinates breathing, abdominal effort, and pelvic floor relaxation to help the fetus descend during labor.
Pyelonephritis
A kidney infection that can occur during pregnancy and may require hospital care with intravenous antibiotics, fluids, and monitoring.
Pyloric stenosis
Pyloric stenosis is an infant condition in which the stomach outlet narrows and prevents milk from passing normally into the small intestine.
Q
Quad screen test
A blood screening test in the second trimester that measures four maternal markers to estimate risk for certain fetal conditions.
Qualifying life event
A major life change, such as a birth, that permits a person to enroll in health coverage outside the normal enrollment period.
Quantitative blood loss assessment
Quantitative blood loss assessment measures bleeding by weighing blood-soaked materials and measuring collected blood instead of relying only on visual estimates.
Quantitative hCG blood test
Repeated hCG blood tests, usually about 48 hours apart, used to see how the level changes.
quickening
Quickening is the first noticeable sensation of fetal movement, often felt as fluttering, tapping, or bubbles during mid-pregnancy.
R
Raking grasp
A raking grasp is an early hand movement in which a baby sweeps several fingers toward the palm to pull an object closer.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software or a scam that locks files or a device and demands payment to restore access.
Rapid-acting insulin
Insulin that works quickly and is often taken before meals to reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes.
Rapid eye movement sleep
Active sleep is an infant sleep state involving movements, facial expressions, sounds, and irregular breathing without full awakening.
Raspberry leaf
Raspberry leaf is an herbal option, often taken as tea or capsules, sometimes discussed for labor preparation.
Reaching
Reaching is the intentional movement of the arm and hand toward a desired object or target.
Read-back
Read-back is repeating important information or preferences to confirm that the patient, family, and care team understand the same plan.
Reading Aloud
Reading together in a way that includes talking about pictures, predicting events, and connecting the story to experience.
reading fluency
Reading fluency is the ability to read words smoothly and quickly with little effort.
Ready-to-feed formula
Ready-to-feed formula is infant formula that does not need mixing with water before being given to a baby.
Rear-Facing
Rear-facing positioning places an infant's body toward the back of the aircraft seat to support the head, neck, and torso.
rear-facing car seat
A child restraint positioned toward the vehicle’s rear that supports an infant’s head, neck, and spine by distributing crash forces across the back.
Reassurance-seeking
Reassurance-seeking is repeatedly asking others or checking for confirmation that everything is okay.
Recasting
Recasting is a language-support technique in which an adult expands a child’s short utterance into a more complete and mature sentence.
Receptive language
The language a child understands when listening or reading, such as words, directions, and questions.
Recombinant vaccine
A vaccine made using genetic engineering rather than live organisms, often considered safe in pregnancy.
Recommendation System
A recommendation system predicts what a user may want to view or engage with and presents related online content.
Recovery code
A recovery code is a backup access method used to regain an account and should be protected like a password.
Recovery time
Downtime is protected time without demanding activities or performance pressure that allows children to rest, decompress, and recover.
Rectal pressure
A sensation of fullness or pressure in the rectum that can occur as the baby descends during the later part of labor.
Recumbent length
Recumbent length is a baby’s body length measured while lying flat, reflecting linear growth during infancy.
recumbent position
A recumbent position is a lying-down labor posture that can make rest, monitoring, and procedures easier.
Recurrent acute otitis media
Repeated middle-ear infections, often defined by several documented episodes within six months or one year.
Recurrent croup
Recurrent croup refers to repeated croup-like episodes that may require evaluation when frequent, severe, atypical, or associated with other problems.
Recurrent miscarriage
Two or more pregnancy losses that may prompt evaluation for causes and treatment options.
Redirection
Redirection is guiding a child from an unsafe or unwanted behavior toward a safer acceptable alternative.
Reduced fetal movement
Reduced fetal movement is a noticeable decrease or absence of a baby’s usual movement pattern during pregnancy.
Reduced urine output
Reduced urine output is when a baby urinates less than usual, often noticed as fewer wet diapers.
Refeeding syndrome
A potentially serious metabolic problem that can occur when nutrition is restarted after starvation or very poor intake.
Reflective thinking
Reflective thinking means slowing down, considering alternatives, and resisting first impressions before deciding what to believe.
Reflex
A reflex is an automatic response to a particular sensory input that occurs without consciously choosing the movement.
Reflex smile
A reflex smile is an early newborn smile-like facial movement that occurs spontaneously rather than as intentional social communication.
Refusal of treatment
Refusal of treatment is when a person with capacity declines a recommended medical intervention after receiving relevant information.
Refusal skills
Simple phrases and behaviors children can use to decline pressure from peers.
Regional analgesia
An anesthetic technique that numbs part of the body while the patient remains awake during and after surgery.
Regurgitation
Small amounts of milk or formula a baby brings back up after feeding.
Rejection sensitivity
A strong expectation of being rejected that makes a child notice possible exclusion and react defensively to small social cues.
Relational aggression
Relational aggression is hurtful behavior that damages relationships through exclusion, humiliation, or manipulation.
Relative risk
A comparison of how likely an outcome is in one group or situation compared with another group or situation.
relaxin
A pregnancy hormone that loosens ligaments and can increase joint mobility and instability.
remorse
Remorse is genuine regret for harm done, shown by ownership and a plan to do better.
Remote monitoring
Observation of a stable child at home under a care plan that includes hydration, comfort measures, follow-up, and warning signs.
Remote second opinion
A remote second opinion is a specialist review done by video or medical records without an in-person examination.
Repeat cesarean delivery
A planned repeat C-section is a scheduled cesarean surgery before labor after a previous cesarean birth.
Repeated Food Exposure
Repeated food exposure is offering an appropriate food multiple times so an infant can become familiar with it without pressure.
Repeat screening
A second screening assessment performed to clarify an initial result, often using a new blood spot or repeated hearing or oxygen measurement.
Repetitive lifting
Repetitive lifting means lifting again and again, which can add cumulative strain and fatigue during pregnancy.
Resilience
The ability to recover after stress, disappointment, or adversity.
Resource guarding
Resource guarding is behavior in which an animal protects food, toys, bedding, or other valued objects from people or animals.
Respectful maternity care
Respectful maternity care explains findings, communicates honestly, offers available choices, and recognizes the patient's emotional experience.
Respiratory distress syndrome
Respiratory distress syndrome is a newborn breathing condition where immature lungs may lack enough surfactant.
Respiratory support
Respiratory support is medical help with breathing for newborns who are having trouble oxygenating or breathing effectively after birth.
Respiratory syncytial virus
A common respiratory virus that is the most frequent cause of bronchiolitis in babies.
Respiratory virus
A viral illness affecting breathing passages, often causing symptoms such as cough, congestion, and fever.
Responsibility
Responsibility is the developing ability to complete meaningful tasks, understand their effects, and contribute to family or community life.
Responsive care
A caregiver’s ability to notice a child’s signals and respond promptly in an appropriate, useful way.
Responsive feeding
A feeding approach that notices a child’s cues, offers food consistently, and lets the child decide how much to eat.
Resting energy expenditure
Resting energy expenditure is the amount of energy the body uses at rest to keep basic functions going.
Restitution
Restitution is the slight turn of the baby’s head after birth of the head as it realigns with the shoulders.
Restless legs syndrome
A condition that causes uncomfortable leg sensations and an urge to move the legs, often worse at rest or at night.
Retained placenta
Placental tissue that remains in the uterus after delivery and may cause ongoing bleeding or require urgent treatment.
Rett syndrome
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause loss of language or purposeful hand skills after earlier development.
Return-to-sport progression
Return to play is a gradual process for resuming sports after injury, guided by symptoms and appropriate healthcare professional advice.
Reunification process
A procedure for safely reconnecting children with authorized caregivers after separation at school, childcare, or another location during an emergency.
Reverse Pressure Softening
Reverse pressure softening uses gentle pressure around the nipple to move tissue fluid away from the areola and make latching easier.
Revision
Revision is the process of improving work by changing its organization, details, clarity, or other features identified for strengthening.
Reward sensitivity
A stronger response to rewards or approval, which can make peer acceptance feel especially powerful.
Reye syndrome
Reye syndrome is a rare but serious condition linked to aspirin use in children and babies.
Rh sensitization
Rh sensitization happens when an Rh-negative pregnant person develops an immune response to Rh-positive fetal blood cells.
Rigid routine
A strict routine relies on fixed times, prescribed sequences, and compliance with established rules.
ring of fire
The ring of fire is the intense burning or stinging sensation caused by perineal tissues stretching as the baby's head emerges.
Risk adjustment
A method of accounting for differences in patient risk factors when comparing outcomes or intervention rates.
Risk assessment
A clinical review that weighs pregnancy and birth factors to judge whether home birth is an appropriate option.
Risk management
Risk management is distinguishing manageable challenges from dangers and adjusting supervision, boundaries, and practice accordingly.
risk stratification
The process of assessing how serious or time-sensitive a child's condition may be based on symptoms, age, and risk factors.
Role ambiguity
Unclear expectations about who should do what, which can make a stressful labor situation harder to manage.
Role-play
Role-play is practicing a real-life situation through acted scenarios so a child can rehearse communication without actual deadline pressure.
rolling
Rolling is an infant movement skill that uses coordinated motions of the head, shoulders, trunk, pelvis, and legs to change position.
Rooming-in
Rooming-in is a hospital care practice in which a newborn remains beside the parent for most or all of the postpartum stay.
Room-sharing
Room-sharing means keeping an infant's separate sleep surface in the same room as a caregiver without sharing the same bed.
Rooting reflex
The rooting reflex is a baby’s instinctive turning and searching movement toward touch near the cheek or mouth.
Rotational assisted vaginal birth
An assisted vaginal birth technique that uses rotation to better align the baby’s head before delivery.
roughhousing
Playful wrestling, pushing, or rough physical play that can increase injury risk.
round ligament pain
Round ligament pain is sharp or aching discomfort caused by stretching supporting ligaments as the uterus enlarges during pregnancy.
Route of administration
Route of administration describes how and where a medicine enters the body, such as by mouth, skin, eye, or ear.
Route of exposure
The way a substance enters the body, such as through skin contact, inhalation, or mucous surfaces.
Routine
A routine is a predictable sequence of activities that helps children remember expectations and complete tasks with fewer repeated reminders.
Routine episiotomy
Routine episiotomy is the automatic use of episiotomy for vaginal births rather than only when medically needed.
Routine problem
A routine problem occurs when a child repeatedly struggles with a familiar sequence that should be manageable with current skills and support.
Routine resistance
Bedtime resistance is repeated refusal, delay, or distress around going to bed, staying in the bedroom, or settling after lights out.
RSV vaccine
A vaccine given late in pregnancy in some settings to help protect newborns from severe respiratory syncytial virus disease.
rumination
Rumination is repeatedly dwelling on upsetting thoughts or questions.
Running away
Running away is leaving home intentionally, often with a plan, supplies, money, or destination, rather than wandering unintentionally.
Rupture of membranes
Rupture of membranes occurs when the amniotic sac breaks and fluid begins to leak before or during labor.
S
Sacrum
The triangular bone at the base of the spine, just above the tailbone.
Saddle numbness
Saddle numbness is reduced sensation in the groin, buttocks, inner thighs, or genital area that can signal a serious nerve problem.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is the school and community response used to report and address abuse, threats, violence, and immediate danger involving a child.
Safeguarding concern
A safeguarding concern is a situation where a child may be at risk of serious harm, exploitation, threats, or unsafe contact.
Safe place
A public, visible, and supervised location where a child can remain while looking for help after becoming separated.
Safe room
A safe room is a specially designed interior space that can provide stronger protection from severe tornado winds and debris.
Safer sex
Safer sex means using practices such as barrier methods, STI testing, and communication to reduce infection and sexual health risks.
safe sleep environment
Safe sleep means placing a baby on a firm, flat surface on their back without loose bedding.
Safety harness
A safety harness is a set of straps that secures a child in a seat to limit dangerous movement and falls.
Safe walking route
A route chosen to reduce walking risks by using sidewalks, lower-speed traffic, good lighting, predictable intersections, and marked crossings.
Safe Zone
A safe zone is a designated, visible area prepared for a baby and kept free of hazards during household tasks.
Salicylic acid
An acne treatment ingredient that is not always forbidden in pregnancy but may need caution based on strength, frequency, and area of use.
Saline nasal drops
A saltwater preparation used in a baby's nose to soften dried mucus and help clear congestion gently.
Salt
Salt is a seasoning and common dietary source of sodium chloride that infants generally need only in very small amounts.
Saltatory Growth
Saltatory growth is a pattern in which physical growth occurs in measurable bursts followed by brief periods of little apparent change.
Sanitation
Practices and facilities that support cleanliness, safe toileting, handwashing, waste management, privacy, and infection prevention.
Sanitizing
Sanitizing means using an approved method to reduce germs on feeding equipment after cleaning.
Satiety
Satiety cues are an infant’s signs of fullness, such as slowing sucking, turning away, closing the mouth, or relaxing the hands.
Satiety responsiveness
A child’s ability to feel comfortably full after eating and stop at the right time.
SBAR
A structured clinical handoff format that organizes communication by situation, background, assessment, and recommendation.
Scaffolding
Temporary, graduated assistance that helps a child succeed while gradually transferring responsibility for a task to the child.
Scald
A scald is a burn caused by hot liquid or water, which can injure a child quickly because pediatric skin is thin.
Scaling
A dental cleaning procedure that removes plaque and hardened deposits from teeth and along the gumline.
Scalp
The scalp is the skin covering the head where hair grows and where hair dye may be applied.
Scalp hemorrhage
Bleeding beneath or within a newborn’s scalp that can cause pallor, increasing head size, lethargy, and circulatory instability.
Scheduled feeding
Scheduled feeding offers milk at planned times or intervals, using either a strict timetable or a more flexible daily framework.
Scheduled routine
A caregiving approach that organizes feeding, sleep, and other activities around approximate times or repeating intervals.
School accommodations
Accommodations are targeted changes or supports that help a child access education, participate, regulate, or learn within the school environment.
School attendance
School attendance is a child’s regular participation in school, which provides access to instruction, routines, feedback, and peer relationships.
School belonging
School belonging is a child’s feeling of being known, respected, capable, and able to participate in the school community.
School environment
The emotional and social atmosphere of a classroom, including relationships, respect, responsiveness, safety, and how adults handle behavior.
School readiness
Kindergarten readiness is a combination of self-care, communication, attention, motor, social, emotional, and transition skills supporting group participation.
School refusal
Repeatedly avoiding or refusing school attendance, sometimes accompanied by fear, panic-like symptoms, physical complaints, or other distress.
School reintegration
The process of helping a child return to learning, routines, relationships, and participation after an extended absence.
School reintegration plan
A school reintegration plan is a gradual, individualized plan for helping a child return to school after substantial absence.
School Report Card
A school report card is a periodic summary of a child's academic progress, participation, behavior, and functioning in the school environment.
School transition
A school transition is a change such as starting a new term, changing classrooms, moving schools, or returning after hospitalization.
Screen exposure
Screen time is exposure to televisions, tablets, phones, video games, schoolwork, video calls, or other digital media.
Screen-free bedtime routine
A screen-free bedtime routine is an evening habit that removes devices before sleep to reduce arousal, notifications, and conflict.
Screen-free habits
Screen-free habits are predictable routines that reserve parts of a child’s day for offline activities and connection.
Screen-free zones
Specific places or times where children do not use devices to protect sleep, meals, homework, or focus.
Screen meltdown
A screen meltdown is an intense emotional reaction, such as yelling or crying, when a screen activity is interrupted or ended.
Screen routine
A healthy screen routine sets predictable boundaries around device use while protecting sleep, movement, relationships, learning, and play.
Screenshot
A screenshot is an image copy of what appears on a device screen, such as a chat, post, notification, or video call.
Screen time recommendations
Age-based guidance that helps families make screen routines fit a child’s development, health, and daily life.
Screen transition
A screen transition is the shift from using a device to stopping and moving to another activity.
Screen transitions
The process of helping a child stop using a screen and move to another activity, routine, or responsibility.
scuba diving
Underwater diving with breathing equipment, usually avoided in pregnancy because pressure changes may be risky.
Seat belt
A vehicle restraint with lap and shoulder sections that should be worn low on the pelvis and across the chest during pregnancy.
Seat belt fit test
A checklist confirming that an adult lap-and-shoulder belt fits a child’s body correctly and stays positioned throughout the ride.
Secondary infection
An infection that develops after another condition, such as eczema, breaks or weakens the skin.
Secondhand baby products
Secondhand baby products are previously owned items that may be reused after checking their condition, compatibility, instructions, and recall status.
Secondhand smoke
Smoke exposure means a baby breathes or contacts smoke particles that can irritate airways and worsen respiratory vulnerability.
Second labor
Labor during a second birth, which is often shorter than first labor but still varies by pregnancy and birth conditions.
Second medical opinion
A second medical opinion is an assessment from another clinician to review a diagnosis, urgency, or treatment plan.
Second-stage cesarean birth
A cesarean performed during the pushing stage, often when assisted vaginal birth is unsafe or unsuccessful.
Second stage of labor
The second stage of labor is the period from complete cervical dilation until the baby is born.
Second trimester
The middle stage of pregnancy, spanning 14 weeks through 27 weeks and 6 days of gestation.
Second trimester screening
Prenatal screening in the middle of pregnancy that estimates the chance of certain chromosomal conditions and open neural tube defects.
Sedentary screen time
Sedentary screen time is screen use that keeps a child sitting still instead of moving, playing, or sleeping.
Sedentary screen use
Sedentary behavior is time spent sitting or inactive, including screen use that displaces physical activity and movement.
sedentary time
Long periods of sitting or inactivity during pregnancy that can contribute to stiffness and deconditioning.
Segmental progression
Segmental progression is the gradual development of upright control from the head and upper trunk toward the pelvis and lower trunk.
Seizure
A sudden episode of abnormal brain activity that may cause jerking, stiffening, staring, unusual movements, or loss of responsiveness.
Selective episiotomy
Selective episiotomy is episiotomy performed only when the expected clinical benefit outweighs the risk.
self-assessment
Self-assessment is a child’s brief evaluation of their work, progress, or next step using assignment criteria.
self-awareness
Awareness of your own feelings, thoughts, and reactions.
Self-efficacy
Self-efficacy is a child’s belief that they can succeed at a task or handle a challenge through their own efforts and strategies.
self-esteem
Self-esteem is a child’s sense of their own worth and value.
Self-feeding
A feeding method in which a baby picks up food, brings it to the mouth, and controls the pace of eating.
Self-help skills
Self-help skills are everyday abilities such as toileting, dressing, eating, hand hygiene, managing belongings, and asking for assistance.
Self-management
Self-management is a child's gradually developing ability to notice needs, make choices, organize actions, regulate emotions, solve problems, and seek appropriate help.
Self-selection
The process by which students’ existing circumstances influence whether they choose or are able to participate in activities.
semen analysis
A laboratory test that checks semen and sperm characteristics, including sperm count and movement.
Semi-reclined position
A nursing position combining reclining and side-lying elements while the baby remains supported, flexed, and close to the parent.
semi-recumbent position
A bottle-feeding posture in which a baby is held close with the trunk tilted upward rather than lying flat.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is a test’s ability to correctly identify people who have a condition.
Sensorimotor Period
The sensorimotor period is Piaget's stage when infants learn about the world primarily through perception and physical actions.
Sensory accommodation
A sensory accommodation changes an environment or task to reduce discomfort from sounds, light, textures, tastes, or other sensory input.
Sensory Development
Sensory development is the growing ability to receive, process, and respond to information from the senses and body.
Sensory Exploration
Sensory exploration is learning through noticing and responding to sensations such as movement, sound, temperature, texture, and touch.
Sensory gating
Sensory gating is the brain’s ability to filter and prioritize sensory information from the environment.
Sensory load
The amount of light, sound, touch, handling, and stimulation a baby must process from the environment.
Sensory play
Sensory play is gentle interaction involving sensations such as temperature, touch, smell, light, movement, or texture.
Sensory processing
Sensory processing is an infant's ability to receive, organize, and respond to information from sounds, sights, movement, and touch.
Sensory processing differences
Sensory processing differences can make ordinary textures, sounds, lights, smells, or physical sensations unusually difficult to tolerate.
Sensory regulation
Sensory regulation is the developing ability to stay at a manageable level of alertness in response to sensory input.
Sensory sensitivity
Sensory sensitivity is heightened difficulty tolerating sensations such as noise, textures, bathing, dressing, or crowded environments.
Sensory threshold
The level of sensory input at which a baby notices, tolerates, seeks, or becomes distressed by a sensation.
Separation anxiety
Separation distress is emotional upset that occurs when a child separates from a familiar caregiver, especially during school drop-off.
Sepsis
A serious infection that can cause fever, low blood pressure, confusion, and rapid worsening illness.
Sequential testing
Sequential testing is a strategy where one test result determines the next test to order.
Settling pause
A brief period of observation before responding to a safe baby's stirring or fussing, allowing time to distinguish sleep activity from waking.
Severe hypertension
Very high blood pressure in pregnancy that can signal a dangerous hypertensive disorder and needs urgent assessment.
Severe weather warning
An official message that dangerous weather has been detected or may be occurring and tells people to take immediate protective action.
Sexual function
Sexual function is the set of sexual response domains, including desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction.
Sexually transmitted infection
A sexually transmitted infection is an infection passed through sexual contact that can sometimes affect pregnancy or the newborn.
Sexually transmitted infection testing
Sexually transmitted infection testing checks for infections that can be passed through sexual contact and helps guide safer-sex decisions.
Shaken baby syndrome
Abusive head trauma is severe brain injury caused by violent handling or shaking of a baby.
Shared attention
A child development skill involving shared focus with another person during interaction, play, reading, or conversation.
Shared decision-making
Shared decision-making is a collaborative process in which patients and clinicians discuss options and make care choices together.
Shared responsibility
Shared responsibility means adults and children gradually divide planning, monitoring, and task ownership while adults continue to provide appropriate support.
Shared room
A maternity room shared with another patient or family, offering less privacy but sometimes more social contact and reassurance.
shared surfaces
Objects or areas touched by multiple people that can carry germs from one person to another.
Sharenting
Sharenting is the practice of adults sharing information, images, or stories about children online, sometimes creating a record the child did not choose.
shift work
Shift work is a work schedule that includes evenings, nights, or rotating hours, which can disrupt sleep and alertness.
shortness of breath
A sensation of difficult or insufficient breathing that can occur normally in pregnancy but may require assessment when severe or persistent.
Short Stature
Short stature is height or length substantially below the expected range for a child’s age and developmental stage.
Shoulder dystocia
Shoulder dystocia is an emergency during birth in which the baby’s shoulders do not pass easily after the head is delivered.
Shoulder hold
A shoulder hold is an upright carrying position in which a baby rests against an adult's upper chest and shoulder with full body support.
Shyness
A tendency to feel cautious or uneasy in new social situations.
Sibling jealousy
Sibling jealousy is distress or resentment an older child may feel when a new baby changes their access to caregivers and family routines.
Sibling relationships
The ongoing bond between brothers and sisters, including how they interact, support one another, and handle conflict over time.
Sibling rivalry
Arguments or friction between siblings that can be ordinary or, when frequent and intense, a sign of a bigger problem.
Sibling warmth
Positive feelings and behaviors between siblings, such as affection, help, humor, and protection.
Side sleeping
A lateral position means lying on one side rather than flat on the back or front of the body.
Signal-to-noise ratio
The relative difference between meaningful speech and background noise, which affects how accurately children can hear and understand spoken information.
Signs of labor
Signs of labor are physical changes that may suggest labor is starting, but they must be interpreted over time and in context.
Silent labor
Silent labor is an informal term for labor involving little or no perceived pain despite contractions or cervical change.
Simethicone drops
Simethicone drops are over-the-counter gas drops sometimes used for babies, although response and evidence vary.
Sims position
A semi-prone side-lying posture that can relieve pressure on the back and sacrum while remaining stable.
Simultaneous administration
Giving more than one vaccine during the same visit.
Singleton pregnancy
A pregnancy with one fetus, distinguished from twin or higher-order multiple pregnancies when setting weight-gain guidance.
Sinking fund
A sinking fund is money saved in small regular amounts to pay for a known future expense.
Sitz bath
A shallow warm bath used to soothe soreness and help clean the perineal area after birth.
Skilled birth attendance
Skilled birth attendance means having a trained professional present to recognize danger signs, begin stabilization, and arrange emergency care.
Skin barrier
The skin barrier is the outer protective layer that helps prevent irritation, moisture loss, and damage from friction or chemicals.
Skin irritation
Skin irritation is inflammation or discomfort caused when repeated moisture, friction, or chemical exposure damages the skin’s protective surface.
Skin rash
An area of irritated or inflamed skin that can worsen when bathing or hygiene products are too harsh.
Skull fracture
A break in one of the bones forming the baby’s skull, which may occur with or without a cephalohematoma.
Sleep association
A cue a child links to falling asleep and may need again after a normal arousal.
Sleep associations
Sleep associations are conditions a baby learns to connect with falling asleep and may seek again after normal night waking.
Sleep continuity
Sleep consolidation is the gradual development of longer, more continuous sleep periods, especially overnight.
Sleep Cues
Tiredness cues are early behaviors that suggest a baby needs less stimulation and a transition toward rest or sleep.
Sleep debt
A buildup of lost sleep that can make a child more tired, irritable, and less focused.
Sleep deprivation
Not getting enough sleep, which can worsen mood, behavior, appetite regulation, learning, and emotional resilience in children.
Sleep diary
A record of sleep times, naps, and night wakings used to spot patterns.
Sleep-disordered breathing
A group of sleep-related breathing problems involving snoring, gasping, or repeated pauses in breathing.
Sleep duration
Sleep duration is the total amount of sleep you get, usually measured in hours per night.
Sleep efficiency
Sleep efficiency is the percentage of time in bed that you are actually asleep.
Sleep fragmentation
Sleep disruption is when screen or gaming use interferes with a child’s bedtime, sleep duration, or ability to function well.
Sleep hygiene
Daily sleep habits and bedroom routines that help promote good sleep.
Sleep inertia
A temporary period of grogginess, slowed thinking, and low motivation that occurs after waking from sleep.
Sleep latency
Sleep latency is the amount of time it takes to fall asleep after going to bed.
Sleep onset
The process of falling asleep, which can be disrupted by evening light exposure, stimulating content, or alerts.
Sleep opportunity
Sleep opportunity is the amount of time set aside for sleep, such as an 8- to 9-hour window in bed.
Sleep pressure
The natural drive to sleep that builds the longer a person stays awake and decreases during sleep.
Sleep quality
Sleep quality is how restorative and refreshing your sleep is, not just how long you stay in bed.
Sleep regression
Sleep regression is a temporary period when a baby’s sleep becomes more disrupted around developmental changes or new skills.
Sleep training
Sleep training refers to optional approaches intended to help infants settle or develop sleep habits, tailored to age and individual needs.
Slow labor
Labor arrest is a halt in expected labor progress, such as no further cervical dilation or fetal descent despite ongoing contractions.
Small for gestational age
Small for gestational age describes a baby whose size is smaller than expected for the number of weeks of pregnancy at birth.
Small parts
Small parts are detachable toy components that can become choking or swallowing hazards for infants and young children.
Small-parts cylinder
A small-parts cylinder is a standardized test fixture used to assess whether a component can fit within the dimensions of a young child’s throat.
SMART goal
A SMART goal is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound, with clear steps and a review period.
Smoking cessation
Stopping smoking before birth or surgery to lower the chance of postoperative and birth-related complications.
Smooth pursuit
Smooth pursuit is the eye movement used to follow a moving object continuously and smoothly.
soap substitute
A cleansing product used instead of ordinary soap to reduce drying and irritation.
Social adaptation
Social adaptation is learning to participate with peers by entering play, communicating preferences, interpreting cues, negotiating rules, and repairing conflicts.
Social anxiety
Social anxiety is strong fear or discomfort in social situations, especially when worrying about being judged by others.
Social cognition
A child’s developing ability to understand social cues, emotions, relationships, and interactions with other people.
Social comparison
The act of measuring yourself against others, such as who gets praised, invited, or chosen first.
Social cues
Social cues are signals from other people that help a child know whether to join, wait, or move on.
Social determinants of health
Social determinants of health are living and access factors that can affect health outcomes and ability to receive care.
social development
Social development is the process by which children learn to interact, cooperate, and build relationships with others.
Social-emotional development
A child's ability to manage emotions, build relationships, resolve conflicts, collaborate, belong, and respond constructively to feedback.
social-emotional learning
Teaching children the skills needed to understand feelings, relationships, and behavior.
social exclusion
Repeatedly leaving a child out of activities or relationships, which can contribute to distress, loneliness, and reduced participation.
social interaction skills
The ability to use social skills effectively, including communication, cooperation, perspective-taking, and forming positive peer relationships.
Social isolation
Social isolation is a pattern of being cut off from or withdrawn from other people and social contact.
Social learning
Learning by watching what others do and what gets approval in a group.
Social media
Online platforms that involve peer feedback, visibility, comparison, emotional reinforcement, and exposure to social content.
social problem-solving
The skill of handling social conflicts by apologizing, compromising, taking another person's perspective, or seeking adult help.
Social reciprocity
A mutual exchange in which both children take turns influencing plans, giving effort, and feeling emotionally safe.
Social referencing
Social referencing is an infant's use of a caregiver's facial expression, voice, and body language to judge whether a situation is safe.
Social rejection
Rejection from peers or friends that makes a child feel unwanted or left out.
Social responsiveness
Social responsiveness is an infant's pattern of engaging with people through gaze, calming, sounds, and interaction cues.
Social smiling
A responsive infant smile that reflects growing social engagement rather than only a reflex.
social support
Help and encouragement a child receives from other people, which can make stress easier to handle.
Social withdrawal
A pattern of pulling away from peers and social interaction, sometimes because of anxiety, rejection, or overwhelm.
Sodium
Sodium is an essential mineral found in salt and many packaged foods, but infants generally need only small amounts.
Sodium hypochlorite
The chemical ingredient in household bleach that gives it its disinfecting power.
Soft marker
A soft marker is an ultrasound measurement or finding outside the expected range that may require follow-up or correlation with prior screening.
Somatic pain
Somatic pain is pain from body tissues such as skin, muscles, and connective structures, including stretching and pressure during birth.
Somatic symptom
Physical symptoms, such as headaches or abdominal pain, that may appear when distress affects the body.
Sound localization
The ability to figure out where a sound is coming from in the environment.
Sound sensitivity
Sound sensitivity in infants is distress or overwhelm in response to ordinary or sudden sounds during daily routines or play.
source evaluation
The process of checking where information came from and how trustworthy it is before accepting it.
Span
The distance a bridge covers between two supports.
Special care nursery
A special care nursery provides a lower or intermediate level of newborn care for babies who need more support than routine care.
special diet
A diet designed to manage a medical problem or symptom by changing food choices or nutrient intake.
Special enrollment period
A limited time outside annual enrollment when a qualifying event allows someone to add coverage or change a health insurance plan.
Specialist availability
Specialist availability describes how quickly needed expert teams can be reached or mobilized during birth-related emergencies.
Specificity
Specificity is a test’s ability to correctly identify people who do not have a condition.
Speculum examination
An examination using a speculum to view the vagina and cervix and help determine whether amniotic fluid is present.
Speech delay
A delay in a child’s speech or language development compared with expected developmental milestones.
Speech-language pathologist
A professional who evaluates and treats speech, language, and communication problems.
Speech preference
An early tendency for newborns to notice and respond to human speech more than many other sounds.
Spinal anesthesia
Spinal anesthesia is a regional anesthetic technique commonly used for cesarean birth to block sensation below the chest or abdomen.
Spinal reflexes
Spinal reflexes are automatic responses mediated through spinal pathways, including withdrawing the body part from a harmful or unpleasant stimulus.
Split Night
A split night is a prolonged period of alert wakefulness in the middle of an infant’s nighttime sleep.
Sponge bath
A sponge bath cleans a newborn with a damp washcloth or sponge instead of immersing the baby in water.
Spontaneous labor
Spontaneous labor is labor that begins naturally without medical induction, although care needs and birth plans may still change.
Spoon refusal
Spoon refusal is when a baby turns away, closes their mouth, cries, or otherwise declines food offered on a spoon.
Sports specialization
Sports specialization means playing one sport year-round, which may increase repetitive exposure and limit development of varied movement skills.
sporulation
The process by which a Toxoplasma oocyst becomes infectious after sitting in feces for at least 24 hours.
spotting
Light vaginal bleeding that may appear as a small amount of pink, red, or brown blood.
sprain
An injury to a ligament, often from twisting or overstretching a joint.
squat
A squat is a movement that lowers the hips by bending the knees and hips, and a deep squat brings the hips very low.
Squatting during labor
A low labor or pushing position that can help create a feeling of pelvic opening but requires balance and support.
Stability
The quality of a structure staying upright and resisting collapse.
Stages of labor
The stages of labor describe the progression from cervical change and dilation through birth of the infant and delivery of the placenta.
Standing height
Standing height is a child’s vertical body measurement taken while standing reliably, rather than lying down.
Startle response
The startle reflex is a normal protective response when a baby reacts suddenly to a loud or unexpected sound.
stationary cycling
Indoor biking on a fixed bicycle that lets you control intensity while reducing fall risk.
Steamer basket
A kitchen insert that holds ingredients above simmering water so steam can soften them during cooking.
Stepping reflex
The stepping reflex produces alternating leg movements when a supported newborn’s feet lightly touch a firm surface.
Sterilization
A process that further reduces microbial contamination on feeding equipment after washing when recommended by guidance or a healthcare professional.
Stillbirth
The death of a baby before birth later in pregnancy, which is different from miscarriage and shapes future pregnancy planning.
Stimulus control
Stimulus control is an insomnia strategy that has you leave bed when awake and return only when sleepy.
Stool softener
A medicine that makes stools easier to pass and can reduce straining with constipation.
Stranger
A stranger is someone a child does not know, although unfamiliar behavior and unsafe requests matter more than appearance.
Stranger anxiety
Stranger distress is a baby's strong reaction to unfamiliar people or environments as the baby learns to recognize familiar caregivers.
strangulation
Strangulation is dangerous compression of the neck that can occur when a cord, loop, ribbon, or strap becomes wrapped around it.
Stratum corneum
The outermost layer of skin that helps protect the body from moisture loss and irritation.
Stress
Stress is a broad physical or emotional response to challenging circumstances, ranging from everyday pressure to severe or chronic adversity.
Stress appraisal
The brain's judgment about whether a demand feels bigger than the resources available to handle it.
stretching
Stretching is moving a muscle or joint toward the end of its range to create tension and improve flexibility.
Stretch marks
Streaks or bands that develop when skin and connective tissues stretch during pregnancy and other periods of rapid growth.
Stridor
Stridor is a harsh, high-pitched breathing sound, usually heard during inhalation, caused by narrowing of the upper airway.
Stroller
A wheeled device used to transport a baby or child while walking or traveling through a building or outdoors.
Strong password
A password that is long, hard to guess, and not based on obvious personal information.
Structure
A built form made by arranging parts to hold shape or support weight.
structured activity
Organized experiences for children that have a plan, a goal, and usually an adult leader.
Student voice
A child’s opportunity to express experiences, opinions, and preferences and have them considered in educational decisions.
Subcutaneous Fat
Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat beneath the skin that stores energy and contributes to infants’ soft, rounded body shape.
Subgaleal hemorrhage
Bleeding into a broad space beneath the scalp that can hold substantial blood volume and become a medical emergency.
Submersion
Submersion is being covered or placed beneath water, an event that can interfere with breathing and require urgent medical assessment.
substance use disorder
A medical condition in which a person keeps using alcohol or drugs in a way that causes harm or loss of control.
Subungual hyperkeratosis
Subungual hyperkeratosis is a buildup of thickened material underneath the nail plate.
Success rate
A success rate measures how often a birth care approach achieves a specified intended outcome.
Sucking reflex
The sucking reflex causes rhythmic sucking when an infant’s palate or nipple is touched, supporting early feeding.
Suck-swallow-breathe coordination
Suck-swallow-breathe coordination is an infant's repeating ability to suck milk, swallow it, and breathe safely during feeding.
Sudden infant death syndrome
SIDS, or sudden infant death syndrome, is the unexplained sudden death of an infant during sleep or an associated sleep period.
sudden onset
The abrupt beginning of a symptom or illness, instead of a gradual build-up.
Suffocation
Suffocation happens when an infant cannot breathe because the nose or mouth is blocked by soft materials or another obstruction.
Superficial abrasion
A superficial abrasion is a shallow area of skin damage caused by rubbing or other mechanical irritation.
Supine hypotensive syndrome
A pregnancy-related drop in blood pressure that can happen when lying on the back.
supine position
A supine position is lying flat on the back, with the back facing downward and the front of the body facing upward.
Supplementation
Supplementation is giving expressed milk or infant formula in addition to breastfeeding when extra nutrition is medically or practically needed.
supported sitting
A supervised play position where a caregiver or stable surface helps a baby stay upright while practicing movement and interaction.
Supportive Care
Supportive care uses non-drug measures to maintain comfort and safety while the underlying problem is assessed or treated.
Supportive limit-setting
Supportive limit-setting combines acknowledging a child’s feelings, stating a clear expectation, and offering a manageable choice.
Support person
A trusted person who provides emotional, practical, and communication support during labor and helps protect the birthing person’s attention.
Suprachiasmatic nucleus
The suprachiasmatic nucleus is a brain structure that acts as the central pacemaker for the body's circadian rhythms.
Surface tension
The force at a liquid’s surface that helps hold it together and can be changed by soap.
Surfactant
Surfactant is a substance in the lungs that helps keep the air sacs open after birth and increases as pregnancy advances.
Suspension
A suspension is a liquid medication in which drug particles may settle and must be redistributed before dosing.
Suspicious link
A suspicious link is an unsafe or deceptive link that may pressure a child to share information, download files, or interact with scammers.
Sustained attention
Sustained attention is maintaining focus long enough to take in and process information.
Swaddling
Swaddling is the practice of wrapping an infant snugly to limit arm movement, especially during sleep.
Swallowed air
Swallowed air is air that enters a baby’s digestive tract during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
Swallowing Dysfunction
Swallowing problems are difficulties moving milk or food safely and effectively, sometimes causing coughing, choking, noisy feeds, or poor intake.
Swelling in pregnancy
Swelling in pregnancy is fluid-related puffiness, often in the ankles, but sudden face or hand swelling can be concerning.
Symbolic play
Play in which children act out roles and imaginary situations, helping them practice language, perspective-taking, and social roles.
Symbolic thinking
The ability to let one thing stand for another, such as using an object or action to represent something else.
Sympathetic nervous system
The sympathetic nervous system is the body system that increases alertness and prepares for immediate action during stress or perceived danger.
Symphysis-fundal height
A measurement from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus used to estimate uterine growth during pregnancy.
symptom cluster
Two or more symptoms that occur together and may influence one another.
Symptom diary
A simple record of symptoms over time, including when they happen, how severe they are, and possible triggers.
Systematic review
A structured summary of multiple studies on a topic.
Systemic exposure
Exposure that reaches the bloodstream and can affect the whole body rather than only the skin.
Systemic opioids
Systemic opioids are pain medicines given by IV, injection, or patient-controlled systems to reduce pain perception and distress.
Systemic opioids in labor
Pain medicines given through an IV or injection that reduce labor pain but may cause drowsiness or nausea.
T
Table-mounted chair
A table-mounted chair is a portable child chair that clamps directly to the edge of a compatible dining table.
Tachypnea
Tachypnea is breathing faster than expected, especially when the rate remains elevated while a baby is calm and resting.
Tachysystole
A pattern of excessively frequent uterine contractions that may reduce placental blood flow and fetal oxygenation.
Tactile system
The sensory system that processes information from the skin, including pressure, movement, temperature, and physical contact.
talk test
A simple exercise-intensity method in which being able to speak in sentences suggests the activity is moderate rather than overly strenuous.
Tantrum
A tantrum is an intense emotional outburst in a young child that may involve crying, screaming, dropping to the floor, or resisting physically.
Tantrum-like behavior in babies
Distress episodes that may look like tantrums but usually reflect immature communication rather than planned defiance.
Tare function
A tare function resets a scale to zero after adding a covering so the covering's weight is excluded from the measurement.
Targeted advertising
Targeted advertising uses information about a person’s interests or activity to select advertisements likely to attract their attention.
Task analysis
Task analysis breaks a larger responsibility into observable steps that can be taught, practiced, monitored, and adjusted.
Tdap vaccine
A booster vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
Teach-back
The teach-back method checks understanding by asking a caregiver to repeat important care and safety instructions in their own words.
Teacher-student communication
Teacher-student communication is the verbal, nonverbal, and relational exchange that shapes learning, trust, participation, and classroom expectations.
Teacher-student relationship
A teacher-student relationship is the ongoing interpersonal connection that helps a child feel safe, respected, supported, and able to learn at school.
Teamwork
Coordinating individual efforts toward a shared goal by dividing tasks, exchanging information, listening, and sharing responsibility.
tear-free
A label for a cleanser that is less irritating if it gets into the eyes.
Technoference
Technoference is device use that interrupts caregiver-child interaction, attention, play, feeding, conversation, or emotional support.
Technology influence
The ways digital devices and online activities interact with a child’s development, routines, behavior, health, and environment.
Technology-related sleep disruption
Sleep problems linked to device use, including delayed bedtime, shorter sleep, fragmented sleep, or daytime tiredness.
Teething
The process of an infant’s teeth emerging through the gums, which may cause ordinary gum discomfort and chewing behavior.
Teething pain
Teething pain is mild to moderate gum discomfort caused by a tooth moving through gum tissue and creating local pressure and inflammation.
Teething rash
Drool rash is irritated skin caused by prolonged contact with saliva, usually appearing around a baby’s mouth, chin, cheeks, or neck.
Teething ring
A teether is a baby-safe object designed for chewing to help soothe sore gums during teething.
Telehealth prenatal visit
A prenatal appointment completed remotely to review symptoms, test results, or next steps.
Telemedicine
Health care delivered through digital tools such as video visits, messaging portals, apps, or online classes.
Telemetry monitoring
A wireless monitoring option that may allow more movement while continuous fetal monitoring is being used.
Telogen phase
The telogen phase is the resting or shedding phase of the hair growth cycle.
temperament
Temperament is a child’s individual pattern of responding to novelty, change, stimulation, and other experiences.
Temporal predictability
Temporal predictability means being able to anticipate what usually happens next based on a consistent order and timing of daily events.
Temporary hearing reduction
Conductive hearing loss is reduced hearing caused when sound cannot move normally through the outer or middle ear.
Temporary setback
A temporary setback is a short-term return to earlier behaviors or reduced performance during illness, stress, poor sleep, or major changes.
TENS unit
A portable device that uses mild electrical stimulation to help reduce pain sensations during labor.
teratogen
A teratogen is an exposure that can interfere with normal fetal development and cause harm.
Term gestation
A full-term pregnancy is a pregnancy that reaches approximately 40 weeks of gestation.
test anxiety
Test anxiety is intense distress during an assessment that can interfere with a child’s ability to demonstrate what they know.
Texture progression
Texture progression is the gradual movement from smooth purees to mashed foods, soft lumps, and appropriately prepared finger foods.
theory of mind
The ability to understand that other people have thoughts, ideas, and perspectives different from one’s own.
Therapeutic drug monitoring
Therapeutic drug monitoring checks drug levels in the body to help keep higher-risk medicines effective and safe.
Thermoregulation
Thermoregulation is the body's process of maintaining a stable temperature despite changes in the surrounding environment.
Thiamine deficiency
A lack of vitamin B1 that can occur after prolonged vomiting and may lead to serious neurological complications.
Third stage of labor
The third stage of labor begins after the baby is born and ends when the placenta is delivered.
Third trimester
The final stage of pregnancy, beginning at 28 weeks and continuing until birth.
Three-point harness
A three-point harness is a restraint system that typically secures a child around the waist and crotch area.
Thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count.
Thromboprophylaxis
Treatment used to reduce the risk of blood clots, such as low-molecular-weight heparin when appropriate.
Thyroid dysfunction
A thyroid disorder that can disrupt bleeding patterns and ovulation.
TICKS checklist
A carrier-safety checklist requiring a tight fit, visible face, kissable head, clear chin, and supported back.
Tiered support
Tiered support is a school approach that increases the intensity of help when universal strategies do not adequately address a child’s needs.
Time perception
The way your brain experiences the passage of time, which can feel stretched or compressed when emotions are intense.
Tocodynamometer
A tocodynamometer is an external sensor that detects abdominal contour changes as the uterus contracts during labor.
toddler bed
A toddler bed is a bed configuration that lets a young child climb in and out independently after no longer needing an enclosed crib.
Tongue-thrust reflex
An infant reflex that pushes food out of the mouth with the tongue and gradually decreases as the baby becomes ready for solids.
Tooth bud
A tooth bud is an early developing structure in the jaw that can grow into a primary tooth.
Topical retinoids
Vitamin A–derived ingredients used in acne and anti-aging products that are commonly discussed as ones to avoid or review carefully during pregnancy.
Top tether
A strap that connects a forward-facing car seat to a vehicle anchor, helping reduce the child’s forward head movement in a crash.
Tornado
A tornado is a dangerous column of strongly rotating air that can produce destructive winds, flying debris, and sudden weather hazards.
Tornado drill
A tornado drill is a calm practice exercise that teaches children where to shelter and how to protect themselves during a tornado.
Tornado warning
A tornado warning means dangerous tornado weather has been detected or observed, so people should take shelter immediately.
Toxoid vaccine
A vaccine made from an inactivated toxin, not a live organism, and used in some pregnancy recommendations.
Toxoplasma gondii
A protozoan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis in people and can be spread through contaminated material.
toxoplasmosis
An infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, often linked to cat feces or contaminated soil.
Toy safety
Toy safety involves choosing, inspecting, cleaning, and using toys in ways that reduce injury and ingestion hazards for babies.
Tracheomalacia
Tracheomalacia is abnormal softness of the tracheal cartilage that allows the windpipe to collapse during exhalation and produce wheezing.
Training load
Training load is the overall amount and intensity of physical activity a child performs, including organized practices, competitions, and informal play.
Training seat
A training seat is a child-sized toilet insert that fits securely over an adult toilet to improve balance and sitting safety.
Tranexamic acid
Tranexamic acid is a medicine that reduces fibrinolysis, helping stabilize blood clots during significant bleeding after childbirth.
Transcervical CVS
A CVS procedure in which a thin catheter passes through the cervix to collect a placental tissue sample.
Transepidermal water loss
Water that evaporates through the skin, which can leave skin drier and more irritated.
Transfer deficit
Transfer deficit is the difficulty younger children may have applying information learned from a two-dimensional screen to real-world situations.
Transient neonatal pustular melanosis
Transient neonatal pustular melanosis is a temporary newborn eruption with superficial pustules that can leave small darker spots on the skin.
Transient tachypnea of the newborn
Transient tachypnea of the newborn is temporary rapid breathing caused by delayed clearance of fetal lung fluid after birth.
Transition
Changes from one activity, setting, or set of social expectations to another that require children to adjust attention, movement, and behavior.
Transitional object
A transitional object is a familiar item that provides comfort and continuity when a child separates from a caregiver or enters a new setting.
Transitional stool
Transitional stool is the temporary greenish or yellow-brown stool that appears as a newborn changes from meconium to milk stools.
Transition buffer
A transition buffer is a planned period between activities that helps a child move from one demand or state to another.
Transition cue
A transition cue is a consistent signal that helps a child prepare for moving between activities, caregivers, places, or parts of the day.
Transition plan
A transition plan outlines how a child will move into a new classroom and receive support while adjusting to teachers, routines, and peers.
Transition warning
A transition warning gives a child advance notice that one activity will end and another activity will begin.
Transplacental antibody transfer
The passage of antibodies from the pregnant person to the baby before birth.
transplacental transmission
The passage of an infection from a pregnant person to the fetus through the placenta.
Transvaginal ultrasound
An ultrasound done through the vagina that gives a close view of the uterus and ovaries in early pregnancy.
Transverse lie
Transverse lie is a fetal position across the uterus in which the shoulder would present first instead of the head.
Trapped placenta
A trapped placenta has separated from the uterine wall but cannot pass out because the cervix closes or the uterus holds it inside.
trauma-informed care
Trauma-informed birth care prioritizes choice, clear communication, privacy, and permission before touch or examination during maternity care.
Trauma-informed obstetric planning
Trauma-informed birth planning adapts labor care to reduce distress, support consent, and respect a person's trauma history.
traumatic grief
Traumatic grief is grief that remains severe and overwhelming after a loss, often with persistent distress, avoidance, and rumination.
Travel stroller
A travel stroller is a lightweight, compact stroller designed for portability, easy folding, and maneuvering through confined spaces.
Tremor
An involuntary, rhythmic movement that repeats in a regular pattern and may involve the head or other body parts.
Triage Disposition
The recommended next step in care based on the information available during a clinical triage call.
Trial of labor after cesarean
A trial of labor after cesarean is an attempt to labor and potentially give birth vaginally after a previous C-section.
Trigger
A reminder, event, or cue that brings back strong emotions or memories.
Trigger shot
An injection, often containing hCG, used to prompt ovulation at a planned time during a fertility cycle.
trimester
A trimester is one of three pregnancy periods divided by gestational weeks and fetal development.
Tripod sitting
Tripod sitting is a supported sitting posture in which an infant leans forward and uses both hands on the floor for stability.
Trisomy 18
A chromosomal condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18 and associated with significant fetal effects.
Trusted adult
A responsible person in a verified public role who can help a child contact a caregiver or authorities.
Tub Bath
A tub bath is bathing a baby in water with the body partly or fully immersed.
Tucked hold
A tucked hold gently brings an infant’s arms and legs toward the body’s midline while supporting the head, neck, back, and hips.
Tummy time
Supervised awake play on the stomach that gives an infant opportunities to lift the head and practice movement.
Turbulence
Turbulence is irregular aircraft movement that can displace an unrestrained infant or adult and create dangerous forces during flight.
Two-hour rule
A food safety guideline that says perishable foods should be refrigerated within two hours.
Two-week wait
The waiting period between IUI and the pregnancy test, when it is too early to know the outcome from symptoms alone.
Tympanostomy tubes
Tiny tubes placed through the eardrum to ventilate the middle ear and help fluid drain.
Type 2 diabetes
A chronic condition in which the body does not use insulin effectively and blood sugar stays too high.
U
Ultrasound
A mid-pregnancy ultrasound examination that evaluates fetal structures, placental location, and amniotic fluid.
Ultraviolet radiation
Invisible rays from the sun that can damage skin and worsen pigmentation.
Umbilical cord
The cord stump left after birth that should be kept clean and dry while it separates and heals.
Umbilical cord care
Umbilical cord care means keeping the cord stump clean and dry while watching for infection, unusual bleeding, or delayed healing.
Umbilical cord clamping
Umbilical cord clamping mechanically closes the cord’s blood vessels before the newborn is separated from the placenta by cutting.
Umbilical cord infection
Infection around the umbilical stump, suggested by redness, swelling, discharge, foul smell, or worsening skin changes.
Umbilical cord separation
The natural process in which a dried umbilical stump detaches from the newborn’s navel during the first weeks of life.
Umbilical cord stump
The umbilical cord stump is the remaining piece of cord attached to a newborn’s navel until it dries and falls off.
Umbilical cord stump care
Umbilical cord stump care involves keeping the remaining umbilical tissue clean and dry while it heals after birth.
Unassisted home birth
A birth at home without a clinician or formal maternity care team present.
unattended birth
A birth that happens without professional medical care or a qualified attendant.
Unconjugated estriol
An estrogen-related substance measured in the quad screen that helps identify risk patterns for certain fetal conditions.
Unconsciousness
Loss of consciousness means becoming temporarily unaware or unresponsive, although a child can have a concussion without passing out.
Underestimation of ability
Underestimation of ability is judging a child as less capable than available evidence suggests they are.
Unfamiliar dog
An unfamiliar dog is one a child does not know well, including a neighbor’s pet, park dog, or rarely seen relative’s animal.
Unique password
A password used for only one account so one exposed login does not unlock other accounts.
Unpasteurized dairy
Dairy foods made from milk that has not been heated to fully kill harmful bacteria.
Unplanned cesarean birth
An emergency C-section is an urgent cesarean birth performed when concerns arise during labor or birth.
unplanned pregnancy
A pregnancy that happens before a person expected or intended it, often creating urgent emotional and medical decisions.
Unsafe secret
A secret involving touching, images, meetings, gifts, threats, or rule-breaking that a child should report to a trusted adult.
Unstructured play
Unstructured play is child-directed time without adult-directed performance, allowing children to choose activities, imagine, negotiate, and regulate arousal.
upper respiratory infection
An illness such as a cold that affects the nose and throat and can sometimes lead to middle-ear problems.
Upright breastfeeding position
A nursing position in which the baby feeds relatively vertically while sitting beside or straddling the parent's thigh.
Upright labor positions
Labor positions such as standing, kneeling, leaning, or squatting that keep the body upright and may help use gravity.
Upright position
Holding a baby vertically or partly upright to support safer swallowing and protect the airway during medicine administration.
Urgent care center
Urgent care provides prompt assessment for problems that need attention but do not appear immediately life-threatening.
Urgent medical advice
Professional guidance for medical concerns that need prompt attention but are not immediately life-threatening.
Urinary catheter
A urinary catheter is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine and keep the bladder empty during surgery.
urinary frequency
Needing to urinate more often than usual, which can happen early in pregnancy.
Urinary leakage
The unintentional release of urine, which can occur with pelvic floor symptoms during or after pregnancy.
Urinary retention
Postpartum urinary retention is difficulty or inability to empty the bladder after childbirth, sometimes related to anesthesia, swelling, trauma, or pain.
Urinary tract infection
A urinary tract infection is an infection in the urinary system that can cause fever and pregnancy-related risks.
Urine test
A laboratory check of urine that can help identify dehydration, infection, or other causes of symptoms.
Uterine anomaly
A structural difference in the uterus that can interfere with implantation, pregnancy maintenance, or placental development.
Uterine atony
A condition in which the uterus remains soft after birth instead of contracting firmly, increasing the risk of heavy bleeding.
Uterine balloon tamponade
A procedure that places an inflated balloon in the uterus to apply pressure and help control severe bleeding after birth.
Uterine fibroids
Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can sometimes cause pain, bleeding, or pregnancy complications.
Uterine inversion
A rare, severe emergency in which the uterine fundus turns inward, usually during or after delivery of the placenta.
Uterine involution
Uterine involution is the gradual contraction and shrinking of the uterus toward its pre-pregnancy size after birth.
Uterine overdistention
A condition in which the uterus is stretched more than usual, which may contribute to faster labor.
Uterine rupture
Uterine rupture is a rare, full-thickness tear in the uterine wall that can cause severe maternal bleeding and reduced oxygen to the fetus.
Uterine scar
A uterine scar is scar tissue in the uterus from prior surgery that clinicians assess in later pregnancies.
Uterine tone
Uterine tone describes how firmly the uterus is contracted after birth, which is assessed because effective contraction helps limit blood loss.
Uteroplacental blood flow
Blood flow between the uterus and placenta that helps support the pregnancy.
uteroplacental perfusion
Blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which can decrease if back-lying exercise compresses major vessels.
uterotonic
A uterotonic is a medication that stimulates uterine contraction to help control bleeding after childbirth.
uterus
The hollow organ, also called the womb, where a pregnancy develops.
UV lamp
A lamp that uses ultraviolet light to harden gel nail polish during a manicure.
V
Vaccine hesitancy
Reluctance or delay in getting recommended vaccines because of concerns, misinformation, or uncertainty.
Vaginal birth
Vaginal birth is delivery in which the baby descends through the pelvis and is born through the vagina or birth canal.
Vaginal birth after cesarean
Vaginal birth after cesarean is a vaginal delivery achieved after a person has previously given birth by C-section.
vaginal bleeding
Hemorrhage is heavy or uncontrolled bleeding that can reduce blood flow, oxygen delivery, or organ function.
Vaginal breech birth
Vaginal breech birth is a planned vaginal delivery of a breech baby under strict criteria with skilled clinicians available.
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge is fluid from the vagina that may increase in pregnancy but can signal infection or fluid leakage if abnormal.
Vaginal examination
An internal examination used during labor to assess cervical dilation, position, effacement, station, or membrane status.
Vaginal microbiome
The vaginal microbiome is the community of normal organisms that helps protect the vagina against infection.
Vanishing twin
A pregnancy in which one twin is lost early, and leftover DNA can affect NIPT results.
Variable
A part of an experiment that can be changed to see what happens.
Vasa previa
Vasa previa occurs when unprotected fetal blood vessels cross near the cervical opening and may rupture during labor or membrane rupture.
Vasodilation
Vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure and contribute to feeling woozy or flushed.
Vegan diet
A diet that excludes all animal-derived foods and requires careful planning to meet an infant's nutrient needs.
Vegetarian diet
A diet that avoids meat but may include animal-derived foods such as eggs and dairy products.
venous return
The flow of blood back to the heart through the veins.
Venous stasis
Slowed blood flow in the veins, which can contribute to swelling and increase clot risk.
Venous thromboembolism
Venous thromboembolism is a blood-clot disorder involving clots in veins that can travel to the lungs.
Vented bottle
A vented bottle is a feeding bottle with vents or valves intended to reduce air swallowing or pressure changes.
Ventilation
The exchange of indoor air with outdoor air, which helps reduce pollutants, odors, carbon dioxide, and infectious particles.
Vernix caseosa
Vernix caseosa is a protective, creamy coating that may cover the fetus’s thin skin before birth.
Vestibular system
A sensory system that detects head movement and position, helping babies develop balance and respond to changes in movement.
Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study
A videofluoroscopic swallow study is an imaging test that evaluates swallowing and airway protection while a person consumes liquid or food.
Video visit
A medical appointment done by secure live video instead of in person.
Viral conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is pink eye caused by a virus, often with watery discharge and cold-like symptoms.
Visceral pain
Visceral pain is pain arising from internal organs, including pain caused by uterine contractions and cervical change during labor.
Visible light
Light people can see that can also deepen melasma and other pigment changes.
Visitor
A visitor is someone invited to spend time with a patient but not necessarily involved in ongoing care support.
Visual acuity
The clarity of vision, especially the ability to see fine detail at different distances.
Visual attention
Visual attention is a baby's ability to notice, look toward, and remain engaged with a face, object, or other visual target.
Visual fixation
Fixation is holding the gaze steadily on an object before or while following its movement.
Visual-Motor Contingency
Visual-motor contingency is the relationship between a baby's movement and the immediate visual change that follows it.
Visual-motor integration
Hand-eye coordination is the ability to connect visual information with controlled hand movements such as reaching and grasping.
Visual schedule
A visual schedule uses pictures or other visual cues to show the order of activities and help children anticipate routines and transitions.
Visual stimulation
Visual stimulation consists of activities that help babies notice, track, and explore people and objects through sight.
Visual supports
Visual supports are tools such as schedules, checklists, pictures, or boards that make classroom expectations easier to understand.
Visual tracking
Visual tracking is the coordinated movement of the eyes as they follow a moving object across the field of view.
Vital signs
Oxygen saturation is the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is carrying oxygen.
Vitamin C
A vitamin that helps form collagen and improves iron absorption from plant foods.
Vitamin D
A vitamin that helps the body absorb calcium and contributes to immune, placental, and bone health during pregnancy.
Vitamin K deficiency bleeding
Vitamin K deficiency bleeding is abnormal bleeding caused by insufficient vitamin K, which prophylactic vitamin K helps prevent in newborns.
Vitamin K shot
The vitamin K shot is a preventive injection offered to newborns to reduce the risk of vitamin K deficiency bleeding.
Vocal Folds
Vocal folds are tissue bands in the larynx that vibrate as air passes through them to create voiced sounds.
Vocal prosody
Prosody is the rhythm, pitch, stress, and intonation of speech or singing that helps listeners interpret emotion and conversational structure.
Voluntary release
Controlled release is intentionally letting go of an object through coordinated muscle relaxation, attention, and postural control.
Vomiting
Projectile vomiting is vomiting that shoots out with unusual force and may signal a condition needing prompt assessment.
Vulva
The vulva is the external female genital area, and it should be cleaned gently on the outside only.
W
wait time
The extra pause given after asking a question so a child can think, find words, and respond.
Wakefulness
Wakefulness is an infant state of higher arousal in which movements, eye behavior, breathing, and responses are more organized.
Wake window
The period a baby can usually stay awake between sleep periods before becoming ready for rest.
Walking epidural
A walking epidural is a lower-dose epidural intended to preserve more leg strength and sensation, although walking is not guaranteed.
Warm compress
A warm, damp cloth used briefly to soften scale before washing it away gently.
Warm-up
A warm-up is gradual movement that prepares the cardiovascular system, muscles, joints, and nervous system for physical activity.
Warning
A warning identifies an important medication risk that may require monitoring, dose adjustment, more information, or another treatment.
Warning-sign monitoring
Tracking symptoms and changes around birth to identify clinically meaningful deterioration early and seek the right level of care.
water aerobics
Low-impact exercise done in water that can be easier on joints, the back, and the pelvis.
Water Beads
Water beads are small superabsorbent polymer spheres that enlarge substantially when they absorb water or other fluids.
Water birth
Giving birth in water, usually using a birth pool, with specific requirements for safety, hygiene, temperature, and access.
Water competency
Water competency is a set of skills for entering and exiting water, floating, orienting toward safety, calling for help, and managing conditions.
Water immersion during labor
A warm-water bath is a method of gradually warming a sealed bottle by placing it in warm, non-scalding water.
Waterproofing
Making something resist water so it does not soak through.
Waterproof mattress cover
A tightly fitted protective cover that helps simplify cleaning while preserving the mattress's firm, flat sleep surface.
Water Safety
Drowning prevention uses close supervision and safety measures to keep a child from becoming submerged or unable to escape water.
Wax impaction
Wax impaction is a buildup of earwax that may block the ear opening or interfere with hearing.
Waxing
Waxing removes hair by applying and pulling off wax, but it can cause skin irritation, inflammation, trauma, or burns.
Wearable blanket
A sleep sack is a fitted wearable covering that keeps a baby warm during sleep without loose bedding.
Weather watch
A tornado watch means weather conditions could support tornado development, but immediate sheltering is not necessarily required.
Weekly routine
A weekly routine is a repeated structure that organizes a child’s school days, weekends, activities, family time, and rest.
Weight-based dosing
Weight-based dosing determines a medication amount according to the child’s current body weight and the product’s concentration.
Weighted sleep product
A weighted sleep product adds pressure or extra weight to an infant's chest or body during sleep.
Weight-for-Age
Weight-for-age is a growth measurement that shows how a baby’s weight compares with expected values for their age.
Weight-for-age percentile
A weight-for-age percentile shows how an infant’s weight compares with measurements from a reference population of infants the same age.
Weight-for-length
A measurement that compares a baby's weight with length to help judge whether growth is proportional.
Weight gain anxiety
Strong worry or distress about gaining weight, here referring to pregnancy-related fear of body changes.
Weight nadir
A weight nadir is the lowest point in a newborn's early weight pattern, commonly occurring around days two to four.
Weight stigma
Negative attitudes that treat body weight as a moral judgment instead of a biological or medical factor.
Weight Trend
A weight trend is the pattern of an infant's measurements over time, interpreted alongside age, feeding, and overall condition.
Well-child visit
A well-child visit is a routine appointment assessing a child's growth, nutrition, development, physical findings, safety, and immunization needs.
Wernicke encephalopathy
A rare but serious neurological emergency linked to thiamine deficiency, causing symptoms such as confusion, eye movement problems, and ataxia.
Wheezing
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing caused by partially obstructed or narrowed airways.
White noise
White noise is a consistent, low-volume background sound that may help some babies settle by reducing distracting sounds.
WHO Child Growth Standards
Reference growth curves used to assess how infants and young children grow compared with a healthy reference population.
word identification
Word identification is the skill of recognizing and naming written words correctly.
Working memory
Working memory is the ability to hold and use information briefly while completing a task or following instructions.
Work of breathing
The visible effort a baby uses to breathe, especially when breathing looks hard, fast, noisy, or labored.
Workplace accommodations
A practical workplace change that helps a person manage pregnancy-related limitations while continuing to perform job duties.
Workplace accommodations during pregnancy
Workplace accommodations during pregnancy are job changes that help a pregnant worker continue working safely and realistically.
Workplace chemical exposure
Occupational exposure is repeated contact with potentially harmful substances that occurs as part of a person’s work.
writing fluency
Writing fluency is the ability to write ideas down quickly and smoothly.
X
X-linked inheritance
X-linked inheritance involves gene variants on the X chromosome that can raise the chance of an affected male fetus in some conditions.
X-ray backscatter scanner
An older airport security scanner that used very low-dose X-rays to detect concealed objects on a person.
Y
Yolk sac
An early ultrasound structure inside the gestational sac that helps confirm early pregnancy development.
Z
Zinc oxide
Zinc oxide is a skin-protective mineral used in diaper creams and some sunscreens.
Z-score
A z-score indicates how far a baby's measurement differs from the average measurement in a standardized reference population.
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