resources + definitions

This page is ever-growing and ever-under construction. I welcome your suggestions of what to include here. Let me know.

Definitions + Acronyms

ABCs

This refers to the safe sleep best practice of placing baby to sleep Alone, on his Back, and in a regulated Crib (or bassinet or play yard).

BFHI

Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative: A program launched by WHO + UNICEF to promote breastfeeding after birth. Many doctors and scientists criticize the program’s safety, effectiveness, and treatment of new mothers.

PURPLE Crying

“PURPLE” is an acronym (Peak of crying, Unexpected, Resists soothing, Pain-like face, Long lasting, Evening) that characterizes the developmentally normal period of time in which babies cry a lot.

SUID

Sudden Unexpected Infant Death is a term used to describe any sudden and unexpected death of a baby, whether explained or unexplained. SIDS is a subcategory of SUID. (Source)
Scroll down for a list of safe sleep resources.

SIDS

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: The unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby less than a year old.

Swaddling

In short: wrapping your baby like a burrito. Read the actual definitions here:

Postpartum Depression

Depression that occurs after giving birth, often due to hormonal changes, adjusting to motherhood, and/or lack of sleep.

Woo

Having no scientific basis. Often anecdotal without evidence.

  • “I did this with my other kids and they’re fine.”
  • “It’s natural, so it must be safe.”