Childbearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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childbearing

[ˈtʃaɪldˌbɛərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

process of

The action or process of giving birth to children.

Synonyms

childbirth, maternity, pregnancy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childbearing

Use 'childbearing' when discussing the process and period during which a woman is capable of giving birth and raising children. It often refers to the entire span of a woman's reproductive years.

  • The childbearing age for women typically ranges from their early teens to their late 40s.
  • She had a long childbearing period, having children over 20 years.
pregnancy

'Pregnancy' describes the state of carrying a developing fetus within the womb, from conception until birth. It can refer to any time during the nine months before childbirth.

  • She announced her pregnancy to her family during the holidays.
  • Morning sickness is common during the early stages of pregnancy.
childbirth

'Childbirth' is specifically used to refer to the act or process of giving birth to a baby. It focuses on the event of delivery.

  • She attended a class to prepare for childbirth.
  • Childbirth can be a very intense and emotional experience.
maternity

'Maternity' relates to the period during and shortly after a woman has given birth, including the responsibilities and experiences of motherhood. It often appears in medical, employment, and social contexts.

  • She is currently on maternity leave to take care of her newborn.
  • The hospital offers a wide range of maternity services.

Examples of usage

  • She was advised to avoid alcohol during pregnancy to ensure a healthy childbearing process.
  • Many women face challenges balancing their careers with childbearing responsibilities.
Context #2 | Noun

ability for

The capacity or ability to bear children.

Synonyms

fecundity, fertility, reproductivity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childbearing

This term is used to describe the process of giving birth to children. It is often used in contexts related to pregnancy, childbirth, and the period of having children.

  • Her childbearing years were filled with joy and challenges
  • The doctor provided advice related to healthy childbearing

Examples of usage

  • She was concerned about her childbearing potential after the medical diagnosis.
  • The childbearing potential of the couple was a topic of discussion during their fertility consultation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'childbearing' has roots in Old English, where 'child' means a young human, and 'bearing' refers to carrying or giving birth.
  • Throughout history, societies have revered childbearing as a vital role, often linking it to cultural survival and lineage.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, childbearing is celebrated with rituals and traditions that honor the woman and the new addition to the family.
  • Certain societies, especially in rural areas, view a woman's ability to bear children as a measure of status and importance.

Health and Science

  • Advancements in medical sciences have drastically improved safe practices around childbearing, reducing complications during childbirth.
  • Nutritional health before and during pregnancy is crucial, with studies showing that a balanced diet can improve outcomes for both mother and child.

Psychological Perspectives

  • The transition to motherhood can be a significant psychological shift, with experiences ranging from joy to anxiety.
  • Support and mental health resources play an essential role in helping new mothers navigate the challenges of childbearing.

Literature and the Arts

  • Childbearing has been a prominent theme in literature, often representing the cycle of life and the bond between mother and child.
  • Many artists throughout history have depicted the beauty of motherhood, often capturing the emotional aspects of childbearing in their work.

Origin of 'childbearing'

The term 'childbearing' has been used in the English language since the late 16th century. It is derived from the combination of 'child' and 'bearing', indicating the act or process of bearing children. Throughout history, childbearing has been a significant aspect of human life, with cultural, social, and medical implications. The evolution of childbearing practices and attitudes towards childbearing have been influenced by various factors, including advances in healthcare, changes in societal norms, and shifting gender roles.


See also: child, childbirth, childfree, childhood, childish, childishly, childishness, childless, childlessness, childlike, childminder, children.