# prenatal

/pɹiˈneɪtəɫ/ (US) · /pɹɪnˈeɪtəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prenatal
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

relating to the time before a baby is born. It usually describes the medical care or vitamins a mother gets while she is pregnant.

For teachers: relating to the period of time during pregnancy before childbirth. Typically used in medical or health contexts to describe care, development, or testing.

## Examples

- She goes to her prenatal checkup every month.
- Doctors recommend taking prenatal vitamins to ensure the healthy development of the baby's nervous system.
- The study suggests that consistent prenatal care significantly reduces the risk of complications during the third trimester and improves overall birth outcomes.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun (e.g., 'prenatal care', 'prenatal screening').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.