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S

Scarlet fever
Scarlet fever is an infection caused by a type of bacteria known as haemolytic streptococci, which belongs to the A streptococcus bacteria group.

Sickle cell anaemia
Sickle cell anaemia This form of anaemia is a chronic condition inherited from one or both parents which causes the red blood cells to assume a sickle shape. The condition is mainly found in Africa and the West Indies.

Sleep apnea
Often a complication of prematurity, sleep apnea refers to periods in which a baby stops breathing. Some full-term infants may also have periods of apnea, a factor that has been associated with SIDS (adults can also have sleep apnea).

Special care baby unit (SCBU)
A unit that specialises with newborn babies that have health problems.

Spina bifida
Spina bifida is a serious congenital condition. The abnormality occurs when the tube housing the central nervous system fails to close completely, which may give rise to severe disabilities.

Stepping reflex
Newborns have a stepping reflex: they will lift one leg and then the other - taking what may seem to be steps - if they are held upright on a table or other flat surface and supported under the arms.

Sterilisation
Sterilisation is the use of a variety of surgical methods to render a man or woman infertile, usually as a permanent form of contraception.

Stillbirth
The death of a baby after the 20th week of gestation, but before birth. Some causes are genetic or congenital defects, umbilical cord or placenta problems, medical conditions of the mother, but unfortunately many causes are unknown.

This is not for diagnosis just a rough guideline. For any further information please consult with a Health Care Professional.