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Search thousands of pregnancy and birth related topics in the largest free pregnancy encyclopedia on the net. |
Neonatal Listeriosis - Listeriosis that occurs in the newborn and usually acquired through maternal infection during passage through the birth canal or by aspirating infected amniotic fluid. Occasionally newborn infants can acquire the infection from the hospital nursery if the conditions are not sanitary. The infection will generally present itself within one week of birth and symptoms include respiratory distress, skin lesions, abscesses in organs and meningitis.
Neonatal Measles - Measles occuring in a newborn infant that was exposed to the virus through a near-term maternal infection. Although this was more common forty to fifty years ago, it is rare today.
Neonatal Mortality Rate - The number of deaths of newborn infants under 28 days of age in a given year per 1,000 live births of that same year.
Neonatal Passive Immunity - Immunity produced by the transfer of antibodies that were produced by the mother and passed to the fetus and newborn infant. Antibodies are transffered to the fetus through the placenta and to the newborn infant through colostrum. The antibodies protect the newborn from many common illnesses and will last for approximately six months.
Neonatal Period - The span of life from birth to 28 days. Some healthcare professionals will separate this time into three sections: Neonatal period I, Neonatal period II and Neonatal period III. Neontal period I includes the time of birth through 23 hours and 59 minutes. Neontal period II includes the time from 24 hours of life through 6 days and 23 hours. Neonatal period III includes the time of life from the 7th day through 27 days, 23 hours, 59 minutes.
Neonatal Resuscitation - The series of steps that are performed to initiate or restore breathing in a newborn infant immediately following birth. Generally, these steps include prevention of heat loss, suctioning of the nose, esophagus and mouth, the administration of oxygen, chest compressions and use of medications.
Neonatal Screening Test - A bacteria-based diagnostic test that is used to detect phenylketonuria (PKU) and other serious diseases that could be present in newborns. The test is generally performed on the baby's 2nd day of life or after the baby is atleast 48 hours old. Blood is collected by doing a heelprick.
Neonate - A term that refers to a baby from birth through the first 28 days of life.
Neonatologist - A specially trained and educated pediatrician who specializes in the care of premature babies and critically ill newborns. A neonatologist oversees the care of infants within the neonatal intensive care unit.
Neoplasm - An abnormal growth of tissue that grows quicker than normal cells and will continue to grow if not treated. Tumors can affect any part of the body and can affect the outcome of pregnancy if not carefully monitored.
Nesting - An instinct that some women experience during pregnancy that leaves them with an uncontrollable urge to thoroughly clean and organize to prepare for the birth of their child.
Neural Tube - A cylindrical structure that is formed in the first six weeks of fetal development and will form the spinal cord and brain. There are four separate sections of the neural tube that will develop into different parts of the central nervous system. If the neural tube does not form properly, neural tube defects can occur.
Neural Tube Defect - A birth defect that affects the spinal column or brain of a developing fetus or baby. During fetal development, the neural tube does not close properlu and the brain, nerves, spinal cord and muscles can not properly develop. Neural tube defects are often related to inadequate folate and folic acid intake by the mother before and early in pregnancy. Two common forms of neural tube defects are spina bifida and anencephaly.
Neuronal Migration Disorder - Birth defects of the neurons in the brain and nervous system. The disorder develops during early fetal development, sometimes as early as 8 weeks. Neurons in the brain are not located in the proper areas, which will lead to an abnormal or missing cerebellum, brainstem, cerebral hemisphere or hippocampus. Common symptoms of the birth disorder include seizures, mental retardation, and decreased muscle tone, slow growth, feeding complications, edema and an unusually small head. There is no cure for neuronal migration disorders, but treatment options include medications to control seizures and various forms of therapy to help the child reach their maximum potential.
Nevus - A pigmented lesion of the skin, such as a mole or birthmark.
New Mother Syndrome - A condition that frequently affects new mothers within the first 2 weeks to a few months following the birth of their baby. The condition is often characterized by fatigue, moodiness, tendency to cry easily, anxiety about caring for the new baby, anger towards the baby and father and guilty feelings.
Newborn - A term that refers to a baby from birth through the first 28 days of life.
NG Tube - A small tube that is inserted through the nose, extending through the esophagus, and into the stomach. The tube ismade of rubber or plastic and is used to remove air from the stomach, administer medication or give food.
Nicotine - The main ingredient in tobacco, which is extremely poisonous and causes irritation of lung tissues, constriction of blood vessels, increased blood pressure and heart rate in smokers and those around a smoker. Because nicotine crosses the placenta, it keeps the fetus from getting the proper supply of nutrients and oxygen that he or she needs to grow and develop.
NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. A special intensvie care nursery that uses advanced technology and qualified health professionals to care for extremely sick, low birthweight and premature babies.
Nidation - The embedding of the embryo into the endometrium of the uterus so it can establish contact with the mother's blood supply for nourishment. Implantation usually occurs 5-10 days following fertilization of the ovum.
Nipple - The small raised area in the center of the breast that is surrounded by the areola. THe nipple contains the milk ducts, through which milk can be expressed.
Nipple Confusion - A common problem that occurs when a breastfed baby is given an artificial nipple, in the form of a bottle nipple or pacifier, in addition to the breast. There is a difference in the sucking motions and swallowing method that is required to use an artificial nipple verses nursing from the breast. Alternating in the early weeks can cause confusion for the baby that is learning how to breastfeed properly.
Nipple Shield - A nipple shaped cap that is worn over the areola and breast. Most nipple shields are made of a soft silicone material and have holes on the end so that breastmilk and flow freely during breastfeeding. Nipple shield are most commonly used by women with inverted nipples, babies with nipple confusion, premature babies or women that are experienced dry and cracked nipples from improper latch on.
Nipple Stimulation - Gentle rubbing or rolling of the nipples to bring on contractions. When the breasts are stimulated, Oxytocin is released in the body, which can cause contractions to begin. Nipple stimulation can cause very strong and frequent contractions that can be harmful for both mother and baby. This technique should only be attempted under the supervision of a healthcare provider.