en caul
Pronunciation: ahn KAWL
Birth condition where the baby is delivered with the amniotic sac intact around the head or entire body.
Full Definition
An en caul birth occurs when an infant is born with portions of the amniotic membrane still covering the head (partial caul) or the entire body (complete caul). This relatively rare occurrence happens in fewer than 1 in 80,000 births and requires immediate removal of the membrane to allow the baby to breathe. While historically considered lucky in folklore, en caul births are simply a variation of normal delivery that requires prompt clinical attention. The intact membranes must be carefully removed to prevent respiratory distress in the newborn.
Usage
Usage note: French origin; maintain italics in formal documentation or use quotation marks.
In Context
- "The infant was born en caul and the membranes were immediately removed to facilitate breathing." — Delivery room notes
- "Documentation indicated an en caul delivery with no associated complications." — Birth certificate preparation