How is a term infant defined in the context of gestational age?

A term infant is defined as one who is born between 38 and 42 weeks of gestational age. This classification is important in understanding the development and health of newborns. Infants born during this time frame are generally considered to be at optimal maturity for transition to life outside the womb, which often results in better outcomes regarding their health and development.

Gestational age is a crucial determinant of an infant's readiness for birth, and being born within this range allows for adequate growth and development of vital organs, which can significantly reduce the risks associated with prematurity and post-term birth complications. This distinction helps healthcare providers assess the needs of newborns and plan appropriate care strategies.

In contrast, defining term infants outside of this range—whether as those born before 38 weeks or after 42 weeks—would indicate that these infants are either preterm or post-term, both of which carry different clinical considerations and potential risks for the newborn.