What term describes edema of the fetal scalp resulting from pressure against the cervix?

Caput succedaneum describes the edema of the fetal scalp that occurs as a result of pressure during delivery, particularly against the cervix. This condition is characterized by a soft swelling that can cross suture lines due to the accumulation of fluid. During a vaginal delivery, the baby's head stretches and conforms to the shape of the birth canal, leading to this localized swelling, which is typically benign and resolves on its own within a few days.

In contrast, cephalohematoma, while also affecting the fetal head, involves bleeding between the skull and the periosteum and does not cross suture lines. Molding refers to the shaping of the fetal head caused by the pressures of labor but does not specifically describe swelling. Fontanelle swelling is not a formal term used to describe this phenomenon and does not accurately capture the condition described in the question. Thus, caput succedaneum is the term that most accurately defines the edema resulting from delivery-related pressure.