International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which classification includes births occurring between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation?

1. Preterm

2. Post term

3. Early term

4. Full term

The correct answer is: Full term

The classification that includes births occurring between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation is known as "full term." This timeframe is significant in obstetrics because it represents the optimal period for fetal development and is associated with the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Deliveries that occur within this range are considered appropriate for gestational age, and infants born during this time are generally healthy and have fewer complications compared to those born preterm or post-term. The classification encompasses a range from developmental milestones to health assessments for infants. Births prior to 37 weeks are labeled as preterm, meaning they occur too early for the baby to fully develop, which can lead to significant health challenges. On the other hand, births that happen after 42 weeks are categorized as post-term, which may carry risks due to prolonged gestation, such as decreased amniotic fluid or placental insufficiency. Understanding the "full term" classification is vital for healthcare providers as it helps guide prenatal care practices, management of labor, and the counseling of expecting families on what to anticipate during the perinatal period.