A newborn's mother is alarmed to find small amounts of blood on her infant girl's diaper. When the nurse checks the infant's urine it is straw colored and has no offensive odor. Which explanation to the newborn's mother is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate explanation to the newborn's mother is option D, "Some infants experience menstruation-like bleeding when hormones from the mother are not available." This condition is known as neonatal menstrual-like bleeding or pseudo-menstruation. During pregnancy, babies are exposed to the mother's hormones in the womb. After birth, when the hormonal influence from the mother decreases, some female infants may experience vaginal bleeding, which can be seen in their diapers. This type of bleeding is usually benign and resolves on its own without any intervention. It is not a cause for concern and does not indicate any serious health issue. The straw-colored urine with no offensive odor is a normal finding and further supports the explanation of neonatal menstrual-like bleeding in this case.