Neonate

Definition

A neonate is a baby who is 4 weeks old or younger.

Alternative Names

Newborn

Information

A neonate is also called a newborn. The neonatal period -- the first 4 weeks of a child's life -- represents a time when changes are very rapid and many critical events can occur.

During the first 30 days, most present- from-birth (congenital) defects are discovered. Genetic abnormalities may show up. Infections, such as congenital herpes, Group B Streptococcus, toxoplasmosis, and other medical conditions become apparent in the neonatal period as they begin to have effects on the baby.