Which term refers to the period before childbirth?

The term that refers to the period before childbirth is "antepartum." This stage encompasses the time during pregnancy leading up to the onset of labor. Understanding this terminology is crucial in maternal and neonatal health, as it helps healthcare professionals to communicate effectively about different stages of pregnancy and care requirements associated with them.

Postpartum refers to the period following childbirth, focusing on the recovery of the mother and the care of the newborn. Intrapartum pertains to the time during labor and delivery, highlighting the events that occur while a baby is being born. Neonatal refers to the period immediately after birth, typically covering the first 28 days of a newborn’s life. Each term highlights a specific phase in the childbirth process, which is important for proper patient care and management.