Glossary
Knowledge is power, and being equipped with all the facts is crucial to improving medical care for women. Check out our glossary for terms related to reproductive and sexual health that you might be wondering about.
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A
Abortion - the termination of a pregnancy; usually refers to induced abortion—deliberately ending a pregnancy, vs. spontaneous abortion—the unexpected loss of a pregnancy (miscarriage).
Induced abortion - purposefully ending a pregnancy using medication or a medical procedure.
Medical abortion / medication abortion / chemical abortion - a procedure that uses prescription pills to end a pregnancy within the first 11 weeks; consists of a dose of mifepristone to block progesterone, a hormone needed for pregnancy to continue, followed by misoprostol within 24-48 hours, which induces contractions to expel the embryo and pregnancy tissue.
Abortion pill - the common term for medical abortion, although it actually consists of multiple pills in a two-step process.
Mifepristone - a 200 milligram tablet taken orally as the first step in a medical abortion regimen. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary to sustain a pregnancy.
Misoprostol - 800 micrograms of dissolvable pills taken orally under the tongue or in the cheeks, or vaginally, 4 at a time for a total of 12 pills as the second step in a medical abortion regimen, taken within 24 to 48 hours of the first medication. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo and pregnancy tissue, accompanied by cramping and heavy bleeding.
Procedural abortion / surgical abortion - a medical procedure to remove an embryo or fetus and pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Vacuum aspiration abortion / suction abortion - a type of surgical abortion done earlier in the pregnancy in the first trimester (up to 12-14 weeks of gestation) in which a tube is inserted through the cervix into the uterus and a vacuum device uses suction to remove the embryo and pregnancy tissue.
Dilation and evacuation (D & E) - a type of surgical abortion done later in the pregnancy in the second trimester (between 13 and 24 weeks of gestation) in which the cervix is dilated and a combination of suction and instruments such as forceps are used to remove the fetus; may also be used to remove tissue left in the uterus after an incomplete abortion or a miscarriage.
Elective abortion / voluntary abortion - an induced abortion to terminate a pregnancy for personal reasons rather than medical necessity.
Therapeutic abortion - an induced abortion to terminate a pregnancy when there are serious medical risks to the mother or fetus.
Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) - a treatment to pause and reverse the progress of a medical abortion before it is complete, by replenishing the hormone progesterone that was depleted from the first medication, instead of starting the second medication of misoprostol. Call the Abortion Pill Reversal hotline (1-877-558-0333) within 48 hours of taking the first abortion pill to receive a prescription of a high dosage of progesterone in pill form and attempt to continue the pregnancy.
Abruption - an uncommon yet serious complication of pregnancy in which the placenta separates from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery, blocking the baby’s supply of nutrients.
Abscess - a collection of pus found in tissue or an organ.
Abusive relationship - a relationship in which a partner uses emotional abuse (such as manipulation), physical abuse (such as hitting or throwing things), verbal abuse (such as threats and accusations) financial abuse (such as monitoring what you buy), or sexual abuse (such as unwanted kissing or touching) to control the other partner. If you are experiencing abuse, call the National Domestic Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.
Accreditation - a certification that shows that the organization meets specific standards for quality and safety. Options Mankato is medically accredited under the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) - a chronic condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which damages the immune system so that the body is less able to fight infection and disease. HIV is spread through contact with genitals, blood, or through pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Active labor - part of the first stage of labor when the cervix is dilated from 6cm to 10cm centimeters, generally lasting 4-8 hours and accompanied by strong and frequent contractions.
Adenomyosis - a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows into the muscle wall of the uterus.
Adoption - a process in which an adult other than the child’s biological parents becomes the guardian of a child and assumes the rights of a parent.
Adoption plan - a document outlining the preferences that the birth parent(s) have for their level of involvement in the child’s life and who adopts their child.
Afterbirth - the placenta and fetal membranes discharged from the uterus during the third stage of childbirth.
Afterpains - cramping triggered by the contractions of the uterus in the postpartum phase as it shrinks and makes its normal descent back into the pelvis.
Alexander technique - a technique used in childbirth education to help women cope with labor pain, teaching conscious control over posture and movement.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) - a protein produced by the fetus that can be detected in the mother’s blood most accurately between weeks 15 and 18 of pregnancy. High levels AFP may be associated with spina bifida or an increased chance of problems with the baby’s growth later in pregnancy. Low levels may be associated with Down syndrome.
Alveoli - tiny milk-producing sacs that are arranged in clusters throughout the breast.
Amenorrhea - absence of menstruation.
Amniocentesis - a diagnostic test to determine whether the fetus has any abnormalities, performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, which tests the fluid inside the amniotic sac that surrounds the baby.
Amnioinfusion - injection of a sterile saline solution into the amniotic sac when there isn’t enough amniotic fluid.
Amniotic fluid - the clear fluid in the amniotic sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid cushions the fetus, protects it against infection, stabilizes its temperature, and helps a baby’s lungs to develop. Throughout pregnancy, the amniotic fluid is constantly being replenished.
Amniotic sac / bag of water - the membrane that surrounds the baby in the uterus and contains the amniotic fluid in which the baby floats. The amniotic sac will rupture naturally or artificially during labor.
Anemia - abnormally low levels of red blood cells in the bloodstream.
Anesthesia - relief of pain by loss of sensation.
Aneuploidy - having an abnormal number of chromosomes.
Anterior vaginal wall prolapse - bulging of the bladder into the vagina.
Antibiotics - medications that treat or decrease the risk of certain infections caused by bacteria.
Antibody - a protein in the blood that the body makes in reaction to foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses.
Antidepressants - medications that are used to treat depression.
Apgar score - a measurement of a baby’s response to birth and life on its own, taken 1 minute and 5 minutes after birth. APGAR is an acronym standing for Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration.
Apnea of prematurity - a condition of preterm babies that causes breathing to stop for periods of 15 to 20 seconds or longer.
Appropriate for gestational age (AGA) - when the baby’s size matches what is expected for its gestational age (how long it has been in the womb)
Areola - the dark area on the breast surrounding the nipple. During pregnancy, the areola can spread and darken. While breastfeeding, the baby compresses the areola to extract breast milk.
Aromatase inhibitors - medications that lower the level of estrogen in the body. They can be used to treat breast cancer and infertility.
Artificial insemination - a process used to help a woman trying to conceive when natural methods fail. Sperm is inserted into the woman's uterus using a catheter.
Artificial rupture of membranes (AROM) - the bursting of the sac holding the amniotic fluid using an instrument resembling a crochet hook with a pointy tip. Practitioners often rupture the membranes to speed up a labor that has slowed.
Aspiration - drawing a substance into or out of the air passages. After a baby is born, the practitioner will aspirate the baby's mouth and nose using a bulb syringe to remove accumulated fluids or mucus and to prevent the baby from inhaling meconium, if any is present.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) - procedures and techniques involving the laboratory handling of human eggs, sperm, and/or embryos to assist with fertility.
Artificial insemination (AI) - a reproductive technology where sperm is inserted into a woman's reproductive tract to facilitate fertilization.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) - a type of artificial insemination in which sperm that have been washed and concentrated are placed directly inside the uterus during ovulation.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) - a type of assisted reproductive technology in which the egg is removed from an ovary, fertilized in a laboratory with sperm, and then transferred to the uterus.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) - a type of in vitro fertilization that involves injecting sperm directly into an egg to induce fertilization and pregnancy.
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) - a type of assisted reproductive technology which includes removing the female egg and sperm and then placing them into the fallopian tube for fertilization inside the body.
Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) - a type of assisted reproductive technology where a fertilized egg (zygote) is transferred into the fallopian tube instead of the uterus.
Cryopreservation - freezing and storing fertilized eggs, or embryos, for later use, often used in assisted reproductive technology like IVF.
Assisted vaginal delivery - the use of forceps or a suction device to help guide the fetus out of the birth canal.
Augmentation of labor - an intervention to help labor that has begun naturally to progress more rapidly. Often, Pitocin (a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin) is used to make contractions stronger or to rupture the membranes.
Auscultation - a method of listening to sounds in the body using a stethoscope. During labor, a special stethoscope or other devices may be used to listen to fetal heart sounds.
Autologous transfusion - a transfusion of a person's own blood. Sometimes, in anticipation of surgery, a person may donate their own blood for use later.
AZT / Retrovir / Zidovudine - an antiretroviral drug that may be used to treat an HIV-positive pregnant woman.
B
Baby blues - mild depression that follows childbirth. It is usually the result of the postpartum hormonal swings and the natural slump after the excitement of labor and birth. Baby blues affects 60 to 80 percent of all new mothers.
Back labor - excruciating pain in the back during labor. It occurs when the fetus is in an occiput posterior, with the back of its head pressing against the mother's spine.
Bacterial vaginosis - a type of sexually transmitted disease that can cause complications such as premature rupture of the membranes or infection of the amniotic fluid. Treatment with antibiotics is effective.
Basal body temperature (BBT) - the body's temperature upon first waking up in the morning. The basal body temperature (tracked using a highly sensitive basal body thermometer) rises sharply around the time of ovulation, helping women determine when they're fertile.
Belly sling - a criss-cross sling used to support a pregnant woman's belly and lessen strain on the lower back. Belly slings may also help ease groin and sciatic pain and many come with hot/cold packs to help further relieve discomfort.
Biofeedback - a method that helps patients learn how to control their biological responses to pain or stress by increasing awareness of bodily processes such as heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. In pregnancy, biofeedback can help relieve headaches, insomnia and possibly morning sickness.
Biophysical profile - a test, typically performed after week 32 of pregnancy, but can be done after week 24, to check how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. Using ultrasound, this test assesses fetal breathing, fetal movement, fetal tone, and amniotic fluid volume.
Birth assistant - someone who is trained in basic childbirth support skills and helps the laboring mother during labor and delivery.
Birth canal - the passageway the baby travels through during birth. It is made up of the cervix, vagina and vulva.
Birth control / contraception - devices, medications, or methods used to prevent pregnancy.
Abstinence - refraining from sexual intercourse, the most effective way to prevent a pregnancy and avoid sexually transmitted diseases. Complete abstinence, or avoiding all forms of intimate genital contact, not just sexual intercourse, is the only way to guarantee protection against STDs.
Barrier method - any type of birth control that puts a barrier between the penis and vagina to block sperm from reaching an egg.
Cervical cap - a barrier method in which a small cup is placed in the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy. Requires a prescription by a medical professional, and spermicide is required for it to work effectively.
Condom - a barrier method of a thin, loose-fitting pouch or sheath. An external or male condom goes over the penis to collect ejaculation fluids. An internal or female condom goes inside of the vagina to keep sperm from entering the uterus. Only use one type of condom at a time.
Contraceptive sponge - a barrier method of a small sponge containing spermicide that is placed into the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy.
Diaphragm - a barrier method of a flexible, reusable dome-shaped cup that is placed in the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy. Requires a prescription and fitting by a medical professional, and spermicide is required for it to work effectively.
Hormonal contraceptive - any type of birth control that uses synthetic versions of hormones like estrogen and progestin to (1) prevent ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries), (2) thicken the mucus on the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and (3) change the uterus lining, making it hard for a fertilized egg to implant. On their own, hormonal contraceptives do not reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
Birth control implant - a small rod the size of a matchstick that is placed by a healthcare provider under the skin of the upper arm to deliver a steady stream of the hormone progestin, lasting about three years before it needs to be removed or replaced.
Intrauterine device (IUD) - a small, flexible, T-shaped device placed by a healthcare provider in the uterus to prevent pregnancy, either made of copper or a plastic containing progestin.
Patch - a small, sticky patch containing estrogen and progestin worn on the skin to prevent pregnancy, applied once a week for three weeks. The fourth week is skipped to allow for your period. The birth control patch requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Vaginal Ring - a small, flexible ring worn inside your vagina for birth control. It releases the hormones estrogen and progestin through your vaginal lining to prevent pregnancy. It’s worn for three weeks and then removed for one week. A healthcare provider must prescribe a vaginal ring.
Birth control shot / Depo-Provera - an injectable shot of pregestin that you get every three months. In most cases, you get the injection at your healthcare provider’s office, although there is a brand of the birth control shot that you can do at home.
Birth control pill / oral contraceptives - a pill form of contraception that’s 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken consistently every day.
Combination pill - the most common type of birth control pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin. Most packets contain “active” pills which contain the hormones, and one week of “inactive” placebo pills to allow you to have your period.
Mini-pills / progestin-only pills - a type of birth control pill that only contains progestin, not estrogen. This still thickens your cervical mucus and thins the lining of your uterus, but may be less effective at stopping ovulation.
Emergency contraception / Morning-after pill / Plan B - a form of birth control pill taken within 24 or 72 hours after sexual intercourse as a backup when typical birth control wasn’t used or failed.
Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) - a temporary method of birth control that is based on the natural way the body prevents ovulation during exclusive breastfeeding.
Spermicide - chemical birth control that immobilizes sperm to prevent pregnancy. Found on some condoms, and also in birth control sponges, foams, creams, films, suppositories, and gels.
Sterilization - a permanent method of birth control.
Tubal ligation - a sterilization procedure in which a woman's fallopian tubes are cut, tied off or blocked, to prevent pregnancy.
Tubectomy - the surgical removal of a fallopian tube.
Vasectomy - a surgical procedure that stops sperm from mixing with semen and leaving the body.
Hysterectomy - a surgical procedure that removes the uterus.
Fertility awareness / Natural family planning - the use of tracking ovulation symptoms to prevent or achieve pregnancy.
Basal body temperature method - a fertility awareness technique which includes tracking a woman’s body temperature at rest (basal body temperature) over several menstrual cycles to predict when ovulation will happen.
Calendar method / Rhythm method - a fertility awareness technique which involves tracking your menstrual cycle and using your longest and shortest cycles to see when you are most likely to ovulate (your fertile window).
Standard days method - a modern approach to the calendar rhythm method which works best if your menstrual cycles are between 26 and 32 days long. Counting from the first day of your period, days 1-7 are typically safe for unprotected sex, days 8-19 are your most fertile days to avoid (or aim for if you are trying to get pregnant), and day 20 until the end of your cycle is safe for unprotected sex again.
Cervical mucus method - a fertility awareness technique that involves observing the changes in cervical mucus throughout the menstrual cycle to determine fertile days. Your mucus generally starts as dry or pasty before moving to a creamier texture. As ovulation nears, your discharge will become wet, stretchy and slippery. The most common analogy for super fertile cervical mucus is looking and feeling like raw egg whites. After ovulation, your cervical mucus goes back to being thick and dry.
Two-day method - a simpler kind of cervical mucus method. Ask yourself, (1) Do I have cervical mucus today? (2) Did I have cervical mucus yesterday? If you answer no to BOTH questions, it’s safe to have unprotected sex. If you answer yes to JUST ONE question and you are trying not to get pregnant, use birth control or don’t have sex.
Withdrawal / pull out method - a method to avoid pregnancy in which the penis is pulled out of the vagina before ejaculation. About 1 in 5 people who rely on the pull-out method for birth control become pregnant. Even if the timing is right, pre-ejaculate fluid may contain sperm.
Baxton Hicks contractions - irregular or "practice" contractions starting around the eighth month that prepare the uterus for labor. Unlike true labor, Braxton Hicks contractions aren't painful and don't get stronger and closer over time.
Birth certificate - an official document issued to record a person's birth, including such identifying data as name, gender, date of birth, place of birth, and parentage.
Birth defect - an abnormality in a baby caused by an error during fetal development. Birth defects may or may not be genetic.
Birthing ball - a large air-filled rubber ball that a woman can sit on during labor. It allows the woman to rock back and forth during labor and may help reduce back discomfort during contractions and allow the mother to relax.
Birthing center / maternity center - a facility offering a homelike setting for childbirth. It is designed for women with low-risk pregnancies and it may be a freestanding facility, or located adjacent to, or in, a hospital. Birthing centers often have less restrictive regulations than hospitals—for example, friends and family may be permitted to visit during the delivery.
Birthing chair - designed to support a laboring woman in a sitting or squatting position during delivery, allowing for an assist from gravity.
Birthing room - a room designed and equipped for a woman giving birth.
Birthmark - a spot or patch on the skin that looks different from the skin around it that is present at birth or shortly after.
Birth parent - a biological parent who decides to place their child for adoption, following through on that decision and completing all the necessary legal steps.
Birth plan - a written set of directives created by expectant parents that expresses how they'd like labor to be managed. A birth plan might mention preferences about walking during labor, induction, cesarean section, use of camera/video, pain medication, etc.
Birth verification letter - a letter stating whether or not a birth was registered with that state. Currently only Texas issues birth verification letters.
Bishop score - an evaluation of readiness for delivery. The score is calculated by using the degree of cervical dilation and effacement, the station the presenting part has reached and cervical texture and position.
Bishop score - an evaluation of readiness for delivery. The score is calculated by using the degree of cervical dilation and effacement, the station the presenting part has reached and cervical texture and position.
Blastocyst - the rapidly dividing fertilized egg when it enters the mother's uterus, eventually implanting in the inner lining of the uterine wall.
Blighted ovum - a type of very early miscarriage that happens when a fertilized egg never develops into an embryo or an embryo stops growing shortly after implantation.
Bloody show - the discharge of the blood-tinged mucous plug. A gelatinous "cork" of mucus seals the opening of the uterus during pregnancy. As the cervix effaces and dilates before and during labor, blood vessels frequently rupture, tinting the vaginal mucus pink or streaking it with blood. This show usually means that labor will start anywhere between 24 hours and several days away.
Bradley method - this series of childbirth education classes teaches women to mimic their nighttime sleeping position and use deep, slow, abdominal breathing to manage the pain of labor. The approach in childbirth is one in which the woman's partner focuses on supporting her in various ways during labor and delivery.
Bradycardia - slow heartbeat, usually fewer than 100 beats per minute for a baby.
Breaking of water - the bursting of the sac holding the amniotic fluid. Practitioners often break the water using an instrument that resembles a crochet hook with a pointy tip. This speeds up labor that has slowed.
Breastfeeding - when a baby extracts breast milk from the mother's breasts.
Breech position/presentation - when the baby's bottom or feet, rather than the head, face the mother's cervix as labor nears. Three to four percent of full-term babies are positioned this way.
Brow presentation - when the baby's head is bent backwards during birth so that the brow is the presenting part, instead of with the chin resting on the chest and the top of the head presenting, as is typical.
C
Candida - a yeast that can cause an infection.
Carpal tunnel syndrome - numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and arm caused by the compression of a nerve in the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome caused by pregnancy swelling usually goes away after delivery.
Catheter - a small flexible tube used to draw fluids from the body. During delivery, women who have received epidurals and can't urinate often have catheters placed into their bladders to allow the urine to empty into a bag.
Cephalic presentation - when the baby is positioned head first toward the mother’s pelvis as labor nears. This is the typical presentation for a full-term baby.
Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) - when a baby's head is too large to pass through the mother's pelvis. This condition usually results in a cesarean section.
Cerebral palsy (CP) - a disorder caused by a prenatal brain defect or brain injury that can occur during pregnancy or during birth. It affects a child’s ability to move, maintain balance and posture, can result in seizures, and in some cases can lead to mental or learning disabilities.
Certified nurse-midwife (CNM) - a nurse (an R.N.) who has completed graduate-level programs in midwifery and is licensed by the state. Most CNMs have a collaborative relationship with a physician.
Certified professional midwife (CPM) - a direct entry midwife who is certified by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). CPMs generally assist only in home births.
Cervical cerclage - a stitch placed in a weak or incompetent cervix to keep the cervix closed and support a pregnancy to term.
Cervical mucus - Menstrual cycle secretions. The discharge resembles raw egg white and is very stretchy around the time of ovulation. It is white, thick and cloudy when conception is less likely to happen.
Cervical ripening - the process that prepares the cervix for labor, making the cervix soft and thin. Cervical ripening either occurs naturally or can be accomplished artificially using prostaglandins or misoprostol.
Cervix - the narrow, lower end of the uterus. During labor, the cervix softens, thins and opens to allow the baby to leave the uterus.
Cesarean section / C-section - a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through a cut in the abdomen and uterus. Used when a woman can't give birth vaginally.
Chadwick’s sign - an early sign of pregnancy. The cervix and/or vagina turn a deep bluish-purple color.
Chemical pregnancy / biochemical pregnancy - a very early miscarriage that happens within the first five weeks of pregnancy before the pregnancy can be seen on an ultrasound. Testing positive on a pregnancy test only to get a negative result a few weeks later can signal a chemical pregnancy.
Child Protective Services (CPS) - a branch of the state’s social services department that is responsible for the assessment, investigation and intervention regarding cases of child abuse and neglect, including sexual abuse.
Chlamydia - a common sexually transmitted disease, often with no visible symptoms. You can get chlamydia from intercourse, anal sex, or oral sex. Left untreated, chlamydia can cause arthritis or make a woman infertile. If a woman who has chlamydia becomes pregnant, she can pass the infection on to the baby, causing pneumonia, eye infections and, in severe cases, blindness. Chlamydia is treatable with antibiotics. All babies receive antibiotics in their eyes after they are born to protect against chlamydia.
Chloasma / melasma / mask of pregnancy - more common in women with darker complexions, this discoloration of the face appears in a mask-like configuration or a confetti-like appearance on the forehead, nose and cheeks and is caused by pregnancy hormones. It gradually fades after delivery.
Chorioamnionitis - inflammation of the membranes and the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus.
Choriocarcinoma - an extremely rare cancer that grows in the uterus, in most cases during a pregnancy.
Chorionic villi - tiny, finger-shaped tissue in the placenta. This tissue helps carry nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and helps carry away waste and carbon dioxide.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) - an early genetic diagnostic test, usually given between weeks 10 and 13 of pregnancy. A small amount of tissue from the cells that line the placenta (called the chorionic villi) are removed through the cervix or abdomen with a needle and screened for Down syndrome and other abnormalities.
Chorion - the outer membrane that surrounds the fetus.
Chromosomal abnormality - a problem with the chromosomes (either inherited or caused by a mutation) that leads to Down syndrome or other abnormalities. Half of all first-trimester miscarriages are estimated to be the result of chromosomal abnormalities.
Chromosome - the part of the cell that carries the genetic material of a person.
Circumcision - a surgery to remove the skin that covers the tip of the penis, also called the foreskin, fairly common for newborn boys for religious, cultural, or hygienic reasons.
Cleansing breath - part of the Lamaze technique of childbirth, the cleansing breath is a deep breath a laboring woman inhales through the nose and exhales out the mouth. It is used at the beginning and end of a contraction to help restore normal breathing and reduce stress.
Cleft lip - a birth defect in which the upper lip isn't formed properly. The groove in the lip can be repaired with surgery, usually performed before the baby is a year old.
Clinical pregnancy - a pregnancy documented by ultrasound that shows a gestational sac (fluid-filled structure that develops early in pregnancy surrounding the embryo) in the uterus.
Clitoris - a female sex organ found at the top of the vulva.
Clubfoot - a birth defect in which the foot or ankle is deformed and the foot turns inward so that the bottom of the foot faces sideways. Club foot is treated with exercises, splinting or surgery.
Coccyx pain - pain in the tailbone area (coccyx) following delivery because of injury to the muscles of the pelvic floor or because the tailbone is fractured.
Colostrum - the thin, sticky, yellow fluid secreted by the breasts before the production of true breast milk. Colostrum is rich in fats, protein and antibodies. Some women notice small amounts of colostrum during and toward the end of pregnancy.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) - medical products and practices that are not part of standard medical care. CAM emphasizes the body's ability to heal itself by using herbs, physical manipulation, the spirit, and the mind.
Acupuncture - a form of complementary and alternative medicine in which thin needles are inserted in select locations of the body and stimulated and manipulated through the skin to help ease pain and balance the body's energy flow. In pregnancy, acupuncture can be used to combat morning sickness, labor pains and back pains.
Acupressure - a form of complementary and alternative medicine that has roots in ancient Chinese medicine. It uses pressure from the fingers to heal and soothe aches and pains; during pregnancy, acupressure can be used to combat morning sickness, labor pain and back pain.
Biofeedback - a CAM method that helps patients learn how to control their biological responses to pain or stress by increasing awareness of bodily processes such as heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. In pregnancy, biofeedback can help relieve headaches, insomnia and possibly morning sickness.
Chiropractic medicine - health maintenance of the spinal column, discs, related nerves, and bone geometry without drugs or surgery. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can help with posture and pelvic alignment to allow the baby to get into the best position for delivery.
Hydrotherapy - the therapeutic use of warm water, usually in a spa bath tub, often used to help relax a laboring woman and reduce her discomfort.
HypnoBirthing - using hypnosis during labor. It employs suggestions and the power of the mind to control labor pain.
Hypnosis - CAM technique that can be useful in providing pain management during labor and delivery. It may also sometimes help turn a breech baby and hold off premature labor.
Reflexology - a CAM therapy in which pressure is applied to specific areas of the feet, hands and ears to relieve a variety of aches and pains. Applying pressure to certain areas on or near the feet can trigger contractions, so it is best to avoid reflexology of the feet during pregnancy.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) - a CAM therapy useful to relieve labor pains which uses electrodes to stimulate nerve pathways to the uterus and cervix. The theory is that this stimulation jams other sensory inputs along those pathways, such as pain. The intensity of stimulation is controlled by the laboring woman.
Comprehensive postpartum visit - a full assessment of a new mother’s physical, social, and psychological well-being done no later than 12 weeks after birth.
Conception - when a sperm and egg join to form a single cell, usually in the fallopian tubes. The fertilized egg travels into the uterus, where it implants in the lining.
Congenital anomaly - something in a structure of the body that is unusual or different and develops during pregnancy. Examples include heart defects and cleft lip.
Congenital disorder - a condition existing at or from birth.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome - an illness in a newborn after a fetus has been infected with the rubella virus (German measles) during the first trimester of pregnancy. Long-term complications can include heart and eye problems, deafness, and mental disability.
Congenital Varicella Syndrome - a condition that can be found in a newborn after a fetus has been infected with varicella (chickenpox), usually during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Long-term complications can include eye problems, brain damage, and misshaped limbs.
Consent - a mutual agreement to engage in sexual activity that is willfully given without any external pressure or factors. Consent does not always have to be verbal, but it should be clear.
Contraction stress test (CST) - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. A CST tests how the baby responds to the stress of uterine contractions. The mother is hooked up to a fetal monitor and is given oxytocin via an IV, while the baby is monitored to see how it responds to contractions.
Contraction - the strong, rhythmic tightening of the uterus during labor. Regular strong and painful contractions dilate the cervix and push the baby through the birth canal.
Convulsion - a series of spasm-like contractions of muscles.
Co-parenting - when both parents work together as a team to raise their children, even after the marriage or romantic relationship is over.
Cord blood banking - the collecting and storing of the baby's umbilical-cord blood for future medical use. Though controversial, some parents opt for private banking in case the stem cells should be needed one day for the treatment of a serious disease in the child or another family member.
Cord blood harvesting - blood from the newborn's umbilical cord and placenta is removed after the cord is clamped and cut. It can then be banked, or stored for future use.
Cord compression - when the umbilical cord gets squeezed during labor and/or delivery, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the baby.
Cord knots - when the umbilical cord becomes knotted, either during delivery or when the baby moves around in utero. Knots usually remain loose and pose no threat, but if the knot is pulled tight, blood flow to the baby can be compromised.
Cord prolapse - when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix or into the vagina ahead of the baby during delivery. If the prolapsed cord is compressed, it may cut off the baby's blood and oxygen supply.
Corpus luteum - a small yellowish body of cells that form after ovulation and occupy the space in the follicle formerly occupied by the egg in the ovary. It produces progesterone and estrogen and during pregnancy it supports the pregnancy until the placenta takes over the role at around ten weeks.
Corpus luteum cyst - if the corpus luteum fails to regress at the expected time (around 10 weeks into pregnancy), it turns into a cyst. It rarely presents a problem, but a practitioner will monitor its size as a precaution.
Cortisol - a stress hormone that rises during pregnancy.
Couvade syndrome - when a father-to-be exhibits physical responses to his partner's pregnancy, including weight gain, backache, food cravings and mood swings.
Cradle hold - a well-known breastfeeding position in which the mother places her baby on her lap, rests the baby on his or her side and supports the head in the crook of her arm. This position is recommended once mothers and babies have become comfortable with nursing, usually after the first month.
Crossover hold - the position during breastfeeding in which the mother holds the baby's head with the hand opposite the breast her baby is feeding from.
Crowning - one of the last phases of childbirth when the head of the baby can be seen at the vaginal opening.
Crown-to-rump length - the measurement of a fetus's size from the top of the head to the buttocks. This measurement is usually used during a first-trimester ultrasound to determine the gestational age of the fetus.
Curettage - the scraping of the lining of the uterus to remove any residual products of conception following an incomplete miscarriage.
Cystic fibrosis - an inherited disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems.
Cytomegalovius (CMV) - a common and highly contagious viral infection. If contracted during pregnancy, CMV may lead to hearing loss, vision problems and behavioral problems in the baby.
D
Date of birth (DOB) - the day a person is born. The DOB usually includes the month, day, and year.
Date rape / acquaintance rape - rape by someone you know.
Deceleration - a decrease in the heart rate of a fetus.
Demerol - an analgesic used to reduce the sensation of pain during labor and delivery.
Diamniotic twins - when twins have separate amniotic sacs. All fraternal twins and most identical twins are diamniotic.
Diastasis recti - the separation of the muscles running down the middle of the stomach, from the bottom of the rib cage to the top of the pubic bone during pregnancy. The muscles slowly return to normal after delivery.
Dichorionic twins - when twins have two placentas. They can be fraternal or identical twins. Most twins are dichorionic.
Dilation & curettage (D & C) - a procedure in which the cervix is mechanically dilated and the contents of the uterus scraped or suctioned out. It is performed after an incomplete miscarriage.
Dilation - the opening of the cervix. Dilation is measured as the diameter of the cervix in centimeters.
Discordant twins - one twin is much smaller than the other.
Dizygotic - two fertilized eggs; the medical term for fraternal twins.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) - a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid. DHA is a major component of the brain and retina and is essential for proper brain growth and eye development in a fetus and young baby. Eating a diet rich in DHA while pregnant and nursing is extremely important.
Doppler Ultrasound Exam - a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to tell how fast an object is moving. Doppler ultrasounds can be used to find the heartbeat of a fetus or how fast blood is moving through a vein or artery.
Doula - also called childbirth assistants, doulas are specially trained to provide comfort and support during labor and delivery. A doula often acts as a liaison among the practitioner, nurses and the parents-to-be. Some doulas will also provide at-home assistance after the baby is born.
Down syndrome - the most common chromosomal abnormality, Down syndrome results when a fetus has an extra copy of chromosome number 21. It causes mild to severe mental disability, as well as other physical problems such as heart defects.
Dropping / lightening / engagement - when the fetus descends into the pelvic cavity in preparation for delivery. In first pregnancies, the baby often drops two to four weeks before delivery; in subsequent pregnancies, dropping often does not occur until labor.
Due date - the estimated date a baby might be born, typically determined based on the first day of a woman's last menstrual cycle.
Dystocia - when labor does not progress. Labor dystocia is when contractions do not intensify and cervical change stops; shoulder dystocia is when a baby's shoulders get stuck after the head has already been delivered.
E
Early term - a baby born between week 37 and week 39 of pregnancy.
Eclampsia - eclampsia occurs when untreated preeclampsia (characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine) progresses to involve the central nervous system, leading to seizures, coma or possibly death. It is a serious but rare condition that can develop late in pregnancy, during labor, or in the early postpartum stage. The only cure for eclampsia is delivery of the baby.
Ectopic pregnancy / extrauterine pregnancy / tubal pregnancy - when a fertilized egg does not enter the uterus, but instead implants elsewhere, usually in a fallopian tube. Symptoms of an extrauterine pregnancy include abnormal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or shoulder pain. The extrauterine pregnancy must be surgically removed to prevent rupture and damage of the fallopian tubes.
Edema - swelling due to the accumulation of fluids in the tissues. Swelling in the ankles and feet occurs in about 75 percent of pregnant women.
Egg / ovum - a female's reproductive cell produced by the ovary and fertilized by sperm to form an embryo.
Egg donation - when a woman provides her eggs to help an infertile woman. The donor's ovaries are stimulated by drugs to produce extra eggs, which are surgically removed, fertilized and then implanted in the recipient's uterus.
Ejaculation - when a man expels semen from his penis during orgasm.
Electronic fetal monitor - a device that checks a fetus's progress and vital signs during pregnancy or when a woman is in labor. It records the fetal heartbeat and the mother's contractions. Electronic fetal monitoring can be external or internal.
Embryo - the name used to describe a developing fertilized egg from the time of implantation through the eighth week after conception. After eight weeks it is called a fetus.
Endodermal germ layer - also known as the endoderm or entoderm, this inner layer of cells in the embryo eventually develops into the digestive tract, respiratory organs, vagina, bladder and urethra.
Endometriosis - the condition that results when endometrial cells (the tissue that lines the uterus) grow outside the uterus, most often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or in the abdominal cavity.
Endometrium - the lining of the uterus into which the embryo implants.
Endorphin - a hormone that helps reduce pain and promote a feeling of calmness. A laboring woman secretes endorphins.
Engorgement - swollen and tender breasts postpartum. Engorgement occurs when the mother's milk comes in between two days and a week after childbirth. Symptoms usually disappear in a few days when nursing is well established.
Epidural - anesthesia administered to a laboring mother into the epidural space near the base of the spine to numb the lower body. It reduces pain significantly by making the mother unable to feel contractions during labor and delivery.
Episiotomy - an incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening just before the emergence of the baby's head.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) / impotency - the inability to get or maintain an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse.
Erection - when a penis hardens and enlarges due to filling up with blood. Erections typically occur when a person with a penis is sexually aroused, but it can happen spontaneously.
Estimated date of delivery (EDD) / Estimated date of confinement (EDC) / Estimated date of birth (EDB) - the estimated date a baby might be born, determined based on the first day of a woman's last menstrual cycle.
Estrogen - a sex hormone that’s necessary for maintaining sexual and reproductive health. Estrogen levels naturally fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and decline during menopause.
Estrone (E1) - the primary form of estrogen that a female body makes after menopause.
Estradiol (E2) - the primary form of estrogen in the body during reproductive years. It’s the most potent form of estrogen.
Estriol (E3) - the primary form of estrogen during pregnancy.
Exclusive breastfeeding - breastfeeding a baby without supplementing with formula.
Expanded Carrier Screening - a blood test to screen for a large number of genetic disorders.
Expressing breast milk - removing breast milk from the breasts using a pump to store for a later feeding.
External cephalic version (ECV) - the most frequently used method to turn a breech baby to the head-down position. Using ultrasound guidance, a practitioner will gently guide the fetus into a head-down position by applying his or her hands to the woman's abdomen.
External fetal monitoring - a device that monitors a fetus's progress and vital signs during pregnancy or when a woman is in labor. It records the fetal heartbeat and the mother's contractions.
F
Failure to progress (FTP) / prolonged labor - when labor has stopped due to weak contractions or cephalopelvic disproportion.
Fallopian tube / oviduct - the narrow ducts or tubes in a woman's abdomen that carries the egg from the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization most often occurs in the fallopian tubes.
False labor - contractions that are irregular, do not increase in frequency or severity and do not efface or dilate the cervix.
False-negative - a test result that says you do not have a condition when you do.
False-positive - a test result that says you have a condition when you do not.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) - the U.S. Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 requires up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for employees (of companies with more than 50 employees) to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. Under this act, people can also take time off to care for a sick child, parent or spouse.
Family practitioner - the updated term for the general practitioner who provides medical service for the whole family.
Fecal incontinence - the inability to hold in bowel movements. Sometimes, a tear or large episiotomy during labor can cause fecal incontinence.
Fertility awareness - ways to track physical signs and symptoms to learn when pregnancy may or may not be possible.
Fertility - being able to conceive and carry a baby to term.
Fertility medications - medications used to enable a woman conceive a baby.
Fertility specialist - an obstetrician-gynecologist who specializes in treating people with fertility problems.
Fertilization age - the age of the fetus based on the actual date of conception, rather than on the first day of a woman's last menstrual cycle.
Fertilization - when an egg and sperm join together to form an embryo, usually in one of the fallopian tubes.
Fetal acoustic simulation / vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. A sound-and-vibration-producing instrument is placed on the mother's abdomen to determine the fetus's response to sound or vibrations.
Fetal alcohol effects (FAE) - moderate drinking of alcohol (one to two drinks daily) during pregnancy can cause FAE in the baby, a syndrome characterized by numerous developmental and behavioral problems. The symptoms are subtle early on and become apparent when the child is older and has trouble with school and socialization.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) - heavy drinking of alcohol during pregnancy (four or more drinks a day) can cause numerous physical and mental birth defects in the baby.
Fetal anomaly - an abnormality or malformation in the fetus.
Fetal blood sampling - a genetic test that screens blood from a fetus umbilical cord for abnormalities.
Fetal diagnostic testing - tests to determine the well-being of the fetus during pregnancy.
Fetal distress - when a fetus is not receiving enough oxygen. Signs of fetal distress include a slowed heartbeat or absence of fetal movement. Immediate delivery of the baby is warranted when there is fetal distress.
Fetal fibronectin (FFN) - a protein that, if found in cervical-vaginal secretions, can indicate that labor is imminent. The FFN test is usually reserved for women at risk of preterm labor.
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) - slower than normal growth of a fetus in the womb.
Fetal heart rate - the rate of the baby's heartbeat while in the uterus or during delivery. Normal fetal heart rate is between 120 and 160 beats per minute.
Fetal loss - when a fetus dies inside the uterus.
Fetal-maternal exchange - the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the expectant mother to the baby through the umbilical cord and the transfer of waste from the baby to the placenta.
Fetal monitoring - tracking a fetus's heartbeat and a woman's uterine contractions during labor.
Fetal movement counts - after 27 weeks of pregnancy, women are encouraged to perform periodic counts to measure how often their baby moves within an hour. Times can vary, but 10 or more movements within one to two hours is considered normal.
Fetal period - the stage of fetal development following the embryonic stage, lasting from eight weeks gestation until birth.
Fetal presentation - the position of the baby, feet down (breech) or head down (vertex), inside a woman's uterus.
Fetal scalp stimulation - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. This test assesses how a fetus reacts to pressure on, or pinching of, the scalp.
Fetoscopy - a diagnostic procedure in which a doctor inserts a laparoscope (a small viewing instrument) through a small incision in a pregnant woman's abdomen and uterine wall to look for any abnormalities in the fetus.
Fetus - the name given to a baby in utero from eight weeks of development until birth.
Fibroids - growths on the uterus. Fibroids can be small or large and are almost always benign.
First trimester - the first trimester technically begins before you’re pregnant. It starts on the first day of your last menstrual period and goes until the 13th week of pregnancy. This is to provide an accurate standard of measurement since it can be difficult to pinpoint the date of conception.
Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) - a screening test for common chromosome problems. The test is done using a tissue sample from an amniocentesis or a chorionic villus test.
Focal point - a spot in a room—on the ceiling, floor, or wall, or a photograph or picture, for example—that a laboring woman can concentrate on to help her maintain control during contractions.
Folic acid - this B vitamin, found in prenatal vitamins and its natural form, folate, found in green, leafy vegetables, prevents anemia and has been shown to reduce incidence of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
Follicle - an egg-containing cavity in the ovary that ruptures and releases an egg during ovulation.
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) - a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth of eggs in the ovaries.
Fontanelles - the soft spots on a baby's head that allow its skull to compress during birth and pass through the birth canal. At birth, there are six fontanelles—they completely fuse by a child's second birthday.
Football hold - the position during breastfeeding in which the baby's legs rest under the arm as the baby faces the mother and nurses.
Footling breech - when one of the fetus’s legs is lowered over the mother’s cervix at term.
Forceps - tong-shaped instruments that are inserted into the vagina and placed around the baby's head to ease it out of the birth canal during childbirth.
Formula milk / baby formula / infant formula - a powdered or liquid nutritional supplement designed to provide infants with the nutrients they need when they cannot be breastfed.
Forskin - a layer of skin covering the end of the penis.
Fourth trimester - a phrase used to describe the postpartum period, defined as the first 12 weeks after delivery. This is a period of transition for both the mother and the baby which should include follow up care to monitor the health and development of the baby and any complications or postpartum depression you may be experiencing.
Fragile X Syndrome - a genetic disease of the X chromosome that is the most common inherited cause of mental disability.
Frank breech - when the fetus is positioned buttocks down and his legs are stretched up with feet near the head at term.
Fraternal twins - twins born at the same time but resulting from the fertilization of two different eggs.
Full-term - the period of pregnancy from 39 weeks through 40 weeks and 6 days; or, a baby born between 39 and 41 weeks gestation.
Functional cyst - a noncancerous cyst that forms in an ovary. This cyst usually resolves on its own without treatment.
Fundal height - the distance between the top of a pregnant woman's uterus (fundus) to her pubic bone. The fundal height is measured to determine fetal growth.
Fundus - the rounded top part of the uterus.
G
Galactosemia - an inherited metabolic disorder that makes your body unable to process a sugar called galactose. Galactosemia can be a problem for newborns because galactose is present in both breast milk and most baby formulas.
Gastroschisis - a birth defect that creates a hole in the abdominal wall of the fetus and lets the bowel stick out. This defect can be diagnosed during pregnancy with ultrasound and treated with surgery after birth.
General anesthesia - drugs that make a person unconscious and unable to feel pain. General anesthesia is sometimes used for emergency cesarean sections.
General practitioner - a physician who provides basic care.
Genetic counseling - counseling with a healthcare professional to help prospective parents understand and evaluate their risks of having a child born with birth defects. Appropriate prenatal screening and testing, as well as treatment options, are also discussed.
Genetic - determined by genes. Inherited conditions are genetic.
Genetic disorder - a disease or condition caused by abnormal genes.
Genetic screening - any test used to determine the risk of genetic abnormalities.
Genitals - external sex organs in the male and female.
German measles / rubella - a highly contagious viral disease causing a mild red rash that can cause serious birth defects in a fetus if a pregnant woman is afflicted. Women who haven't had German measles should make sure they're immunized before conception.
Gestational age - the age of the fetus while in the uterus, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period.
Gestational diabetes - a condition that develops during pregnancy when blood sugar levels become too high because the mother doesn't produce enough insulin. Gestational diabetes can be treated, and it usually disappears after pregnancy.
Gestation - synonymous with pregnancy, gestation refers to the period of time a baby is carried in the uterus counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. Early-term gestation is between 37 to 39 weeks; full-term gestation is between 39 and 41 weeks; late-term gestation is between 41 and 42 weeks; and post-term gestation is 42 weeks or more.
Glucose - a form of sugar present in the blood.
Glucose screening test - a preliminary test used to check for diabetes. Also called a glucose challenge test (GCT). A person consumes a sweet glucose drink one hour before having some blood drawn. If the blood work shows elevated levels of glucose, a glucose tolerance test is ordered to confirm diabetes.
Glucose tolerance test - this is the next step if a glucose screening test comes back elevated. A fast is required prior to this three-hour study, which consists of consuming a highly concentrated sweet glucose drink before having blood drawn at specific intervals. If the blood work of a pregnant woman comes back again with elevated numbers, there's a high probability that she has gestational diabetes.
Gonorrhea - a sexually transmitted disease that can lead to preterm delivery or serious eye problems for the baby, among other ailments, if contracted and not treated during pregnancy.
Gravida - the medical term for a pregnant woman.
Group B streptococcus (GBS) - a type of bacteria that can be found in the vagina and can be picked up by the baby as he or she passes through the vaginal canal during childbirth, causing a very serious infection. Testing for GBS is usually scheduled between weeks 35 and 37. The practitioner will use vaginal and rectal swabs, and, if the result is positive, the treatment is to administer either IV antibiotics during labor or oral antibiotics during the last weeks of pregnancy.
Gynecologist (GYN) - a physician who specializes in gynecology.
Gynecology - the branch of medicine that involves care of the external genitals, internal female reproductive organs, and breasts.
H
Habitual miscarriage - three or more consecutive miscarriages.
Head circumference - measurement of the baby’s head.
Healthy relationship - a relationship with honesty, trust, respect, equality, and open communication between partners, which takes effort and compromises from both people.
Heartburn - a burning sensation felt in the chest and throat when acid from the stomach leaks up into the esophagus. During pregnancy, the muscle at the top of the stomach that usually prevents digestive acids from going back up relaxes, allowing gastric juices to splash back. The pressure of the growing uterus also puts pressure on the stomach, allowing acid to travel back.
Hegar’s sign - used by physicians and midwives as a sign of pregnancy. The area between the cervix and the uterus softens in early pregnancy.
HELLP syndrome - an abbreviation for hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets. HELLP is a rare, serious condition occurring during pregnancy on its own or in association with preeclampsia. Symptoms include severe upper-right abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting in the third trimester as well as full-body itching. The treatment is to deliver the baby.
Hemophilia - a hereditary blood disorder in which blood does not clot properly. It almost always occurs in males, though women can be carriers.
Hemorrhage - heavy bleeding from the uterus. Hemorrhage is rare and can occur postpartum.
Hemorrhoids - varicose veins of the rectum, afflicting 20 to 50 percent of pregnant women. Caused by increased blood volume and pressure from the uterus on the veins in the pelvis, the swollen veins in the rectum look like a pile of grapes and cause itching, pain, and bleeding. They can also appear postpartum as a result of pushing during labor. Constipation can cause hemorrhoids or compound them.
Hepatitis - inflammation of the liver
Hepatitis A (HAV) - an infection of the liver which is spread through close person-to-person contact or contaminated water or food, and can be prevented through vaccination.
Hepatitis B (HBV) - an infection of the liver caused by a blood-borne virus or through sexual contact. It can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, though there is a vaccine that all newborns receive.
Hepatitis C (HCV) - an infection of the liver which is transmitted through exposure to blood. There isn’t a vaccine for hepatitis C, but it can be cured with oral medication.
Herpes - a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers, spread by skin-to-skin contact. Once you’re infected, the virus stays in your body for life, usually staying dormant with occasional outbreaks.
Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) / oral herpes - a type of herpes virus that typically infects the mouth, causing cold sores, but can also infect the genitals.
Herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) / genital herpes - a type of herpes virus that typically infect the genitals, causing clusters of sores, but can also infect the mouth.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) - a federal law that led to the creation of national standards to protect sensitive patient health information from being disclosed without the patient’s consent or knowledge.
High-risk pregnancy - a pregnancy with a higher than normal risk of developing complications. Risk may be related to a woman's age, a woman carrying multiple fetuses, Rh incompatibility, preterm labor, placenta previa, gestational diabetes, among other conditions.
Home birth - labor and delivery that takes place at home, usually with a midwife present.
Home pregnancy test - a test that diagnoses pregnancy by detecting the presence of the hormone hCG in the urine.
Hormone - a chemical secretion that the body produces to stimulate or slow down various body functions.
Hot flashes - a sudden feeling of feverish heat, typically as a symptom of menopause.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy, which helps thicken the uterine lining to support a fetus and tells your body to stop menstruating. hCG is what pregnancy tests detect to confirm a pregnancy.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) - a virus that attacks certain cells of the body’s immune system. If left untreated, HIV can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) - a common virus that can affect different parts of your body, spread through skin-to-skin contact. There are over 100 types of HPV, including strains that cause warts and some that can lead to cancers.
Hydatidiform mole / molar pregnancy - an abnormal pregnancy in which there is no fetus, only an abnormal mass growth.
Hydramnios - when there is too much amniotic fluid in the uterus.
Hydrocephalus - a relatively rare condition caused by an abnormal amount of fluid in the brain. It is sometimes the first sign of spina bifida.
Hymen - a thin, fleshy piece of tissue that stretches across part of the opening to the vagina.
Hyperemesis gravidarum - an exaggerated form of morning sickness characterized by extreme, frequent and severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, and sometimes leading to dehydration and hospitalization.
Hyperglycemia - having too much glucose in the blood. Hyperglycemia is usually a sign of gestational diabetes.
Hypertension - high blood pressure.
Hyperthyroidism - elevated levels of the thyroid hormones. If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause problems during pregnancy.
Hyperventilation - breathing too fast, leading to dizziness and tingling. Can occur during labor.
Hypotension - low blood pressure. Some women experience hypotension when they get an epidural during labor.
Hypothyroidism - a deficiency of thyroid hormone due to an underactive thyroid gland. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause problems during and/or after pregnancy.
Hypoxia - a lack of sufficient oxygen to the baby, due to a cord compression or low blood pressure in the mother.
Hysterectomy - the surgical removal of the uterus.
Hysterosalpingography - an X-ray procedure to look for problems in the uterus or in the fallopian tubes. The procedure uses a small amount of fluid to make the X-ray clearer.
Hysteroscopy - a procedure to view the inside of or perform surgery in the uterus. The procedure uses a lighted telescope inserted through the cervix and into the uterus.
I
Identical twins - identical twins are formed from the division of one fertilized egg that then grows into two fetuses. They are genetically identical and will look exactly alike.
Immune system - the protective system of the body that defends against infection and disease.
Immunization - the administration of a vaccine, often by injection, that makes the body resistant to certain bacteria or viruses.
Implantation bleeding - a small amount of spotting or bleeding that happens early in pregnancy, about 2 weeks after ovulation. This may be a sign that a fertilized egg has attached to the lining of the uterus.
Implantation - the stage of pregnancy when the fertilized egg (blastocyst) attaches to the wall of the uterus.
Inborn errors of metabolism - genetic defects in which a baby is missing an enzyme or other chemical substance, making it impossible to metabolize a particular dietary element. Most disorders can be tested for at birth or diagnosed prenatally.
Incision - a cut made to open the body during surgery. During a cesarean section, an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus.
Incompetent cervix / cervical insufficiency - a condition in which the cervix, under pressure from the growing uterus, opens too soon without contractions before a pregnancy has reached term. It can cause a miscarriage in the second trimester or preterm labor in the third. Incompetent cervix is often treated with a cerclage.
Incomplete miscarriage / incomplete abortion - a miscarriage in which not all of the uterine contents are expelled. The remaining tissue is usually removed with a D&C.
Induced abortion - an intervention to end a pregnancy so that it does not result in a live birth.
Induced menopause - menopause that happens as a result of ovaries being removed or damaged.
Induction - using artificial means (such as drugs like Pitocin or prostaglandins or by rupturing of the membranes) to start labor.
Inevitable miscarriage / inevitable spontaneous abortion - a pregnancy with bleeding and cramping and an open cervix in which a miscarriage is unavoidable and cannot be prevented.
Infertility / sterility - the inability to become pregnant or to cause a pregnancy.
Informed consent - the process by which a patient gains an understanding of the risks and benefits of a medical procedure or treatment as well as the alternatives.
Inherited disorders - disorders caused by a change in a gene that can be passed from parents to children.
Inhibin-A - a hormone produced by the placenta and passed into the mother's bloodstream. Levels of this hormone can be checked via a blood test (quad screen) during the second trimester. High levels (combined with high levels of other hormones) can indicate an increased risk of the baby having Down syndrome.
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) - a healthcare professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding.
Intimate partner violence (IPV) / domestic violence / partner abuse / relationship abuse / dating violence - a pattern of emotional, verbal, physical, or sexual abuse in the context of an intimate relationship. If you are experiencing abuse, call the National Domestic Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) - a liver condition that can develop during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
Intrapartum fever - elevated body temperature in a pregnant woman during labor and/or delivery.
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) - when the unborn baby does not grow appropriately in the mother's womb. Growth restriction is diagnosed when the baby weighs less than the 10th percentile for gestation age.
Intravenous medicine (IV) - an injection of medicine into a vein, often through a catheter that goes into the vein.
In utero - inside the uterus.
Inverted nipples - a condition in which the nipples retract into the breast tissues instead of sticking out when cold or when the breast is compressed at the edge of the areola. Women with inverted nipples may have to try techniques to draw them out before attempting to breastfeed.
Involution - the postpartum process of the uterus returning to its normal size after the birth of a baby.
Iron deficiency anemia - a decrease in the number of red blood cells, usually due to a shortage of iron. The condition, detected through a blood test, causes such symptoms as fatigue, weakness, breathlessness, or fainting spells. Eat a diet rich in iron or take an iron supplement to keep up with the increased need for red blood cells.
J
Jaundice - yellowing of the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes due to diseases of the liver. Jaundice can also happen in newborn infants if the liver isn’t fully functional yet. Treatment is available for infants but isn’t usually needed.
Jock itch - a very common fungal skin infection on the scrotum, penis, or groin area. Caused by wearing tight clothing, sweating a lot, or not drying the genitals carefully after bathing. Jock itch can cause a reddish, scaly rash that can become inflamed, itchy, and painful.
Joint custody - a form of child custody in which separated or divorced parents share both decision-making authority and responsibility for their child.
K
Karyotype - an image of a person’s chromosomes, arranged in order of size.
Kegel exercise - a simple exercise designed to tone the muscles in the vaginal and perineal area, strengthening them to prevent and improve urinary incontinence, improve sexual sensation, and in preparation for delivery. To do Kegels, firmly tense the muscles around the vagina, similarly to how you would stop the flow of urine, hold it as long as possible, then slowly release the muscles. Because they exercise internal muscles, kegels can be done anywhere, anytime.
Kick count - timing how long it takes to feel 10 movements of the fetus. This test is done at home later in pregnancy as a way to monitor fetal well-being.
L
Labia majora - the outer, larger folds of tissue of the female genital area.
Labia minora - the inner, smaller folds of tissue of the female genital area.
Labia - the two sets of skin folds that protect a woman's genitals.
Labor augmentation - steps taken to stimulate the uterus to have more contractions that are stronger, longer, and closer together. Labor augmentation is done after labor has started on its own but contractions have slowed or stopped.
Labor-delivery-postpartum room (LDPR) - a room, usually in a hospital or birthing center, designed to accommodate a woman's labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum stay.
Labor-delivery-recovery room (LDR) - a room, usually in a hospital or birthing center, designed to accommodate a woman's labor, delivery and recovery.
Labor induction - the use of medication or other methods to start labor.
Laborist - an obstetrician–gynecologist (ob-gyn) who works only in a hospital to provide care during labor and delivery.
Labor - the process of childbirth, beginning with the rhythmic contractions of the uterine muscles, which open the cervix to allow a baby to be born, and ending with the expulsion of the placenta.
Laceration - in labor, a laceration refers to a tear in the perineal area that occurs during childbirth.
Lactation consultant or specialist - a person trained to assist breastfeeding women.
Lactation - the production of milk that usually begins between two and five days after a woman gives birth.
Lactobacilli - a type of bacteria normally found in large numbers in the vagina. These bacteria help keep the vagina acidic and prevent overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria.
Lactose intolerance - a condition in which the body has difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, gas, pain or cramps.
Lamaze - this technique for preparing for childbirth is based on the idea that the best way to control pain is through knowledge and relaxation. The approach uses relaxation and rhythmic breathing patterns by the laboring woman in conjunction with the support of her coach to deal with the pain of labor and delivery.
Lanugo - the fine temporary hair that covers the fetus by the middle of pregnancy; it begins to shed by the eighth month but is sometimes still present at birth.
Laparoscopy - a surgical procedure using a thin, lighted telescope called a laparoscope. The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision (cut) in the abdomen and used to view the pelvic organs. Other long, thin instruments can be used with it to perform surgery.
Laparotomy - a surgical procedure that uses a large incision (cut) in the abdomen.
Large for gestational age (LGA) - A newborn weighing more than most babies born—usually ten or more pounds at term.
Last menstrual period (LMP) - the first day of the last menstrual period, the date that is used to calculate the 40 weeks of pregnancy and a woman's due date.
Latching on - the movement in which the baby takes the nipple and areola properly into the mouth to begin breastfeeding.
Latent labor - the first and longest phase of labor during which the cervix effaces and dilates to three centimeters.
Late term pregnancy - a pregnancy between weeks 41 and 42. The pregnancy has gone past term (40 weeks) and is considered late but not yet postterm (or 42 weeks and beyond).
Layette - clothing and other supplies for a newborn baby.
Leboyer birth - a childbirth technique that advocates a trauma-free birth. This can include putting the baby on the mother's abdomen immediately after delivery, dimming the lights, massaging the baby or giving the newborn a warm bath.
Legal custody - the right and responsibility to make major decisions concerning a child.
Leg cramps - painful leg spasms common at night during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Leg cramp pain can be relieved by straightening the leg and flexing the ankle and toes slowly up toward the nose.
Leopold’s maneuvers - techniques used by physicians and midwives to determine fetal presentation and position in utero. The practitioner positions his or her hands on the woman's abdomen and feels for the baby's head, back and buttocks.
Let-down - an involuntary reflex during breastfeeding that causes the milk to flow freely as a response to the suckling of the baby.
Leukorrhea - a thick, milky, mild-smelling vaginal discharge that is normal during pregnancy. It usually increases as pregnancy progresses and can get heavy at times.
Limited obstetrical (OB) ultrasound - a focused ultrasound exam designed to answer a specific clinical question (such as checking for viability, gestational age, and/or an ectopic pregnancy), not to provide a comprehensive evaluation.
Linea alba - the white line that runs down the center of the abdomen to the top of the pubic bone. During pregnancy, it darkens and is renamed the linea nigra.
Linea nigra - a dark line caused by pregnancy hormones that runs down the center of the abdomen to the top of the pubic bone. The linea nigra may be more noticeable in dark-skinned women than those who are fair-skinned.
Listeriosis - an infection caused by bacteria found in certain foods including unpasteurized milk products, undercooked meats, fish, shellfish, poultry, deli meats and unwashed vegetables. The symptoms of listeriosis are similar to those of the flu. The illness can be transmitted in utero to a baby and lead to serious complications.
Local anesthesia - an injection of anesthetic to numb a small area on the body. Women are often given a local before receiving an epidural or an episiotomy.
Lochia - postpartum vaginal discharge and bleeding that resembles a heavy period and continues after delivery up until about six weeks before tapering off.
Low birth weight - weighing less than 5.5 pounds (5 lbs 8 oz) when born. About 1 out of 12 babies are born with low birth weight. Low birth weight babies are at higher risk of many health problems.
Low transverse Cesarean section (LTCS) - the incision for this type of Cesarean section birth goes across the lower section of the mother's uterus, from one side of the belly to the other.
Lumbar epidural (LEP) - pain medicine used to decrease sensation in the lumbar (lower back) area. LEP can be used for labor pain and for Cesarean births.
Luteinizing hormone (LH) - a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates other hormones of the reproductive system. A quick rise in this hormone, known as the “LH surge,” triggers ovulation in females. In males, LH regulates testosterone.
M
Macrosomia - a condition in which a newborn has a high birth weight of 9 pounds 15 ounces or more. It is common to diabetic mothers.
Magnesium sulfate - a medication used to prevent and treat eclampsia.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic tool that in pregnancy can yield a clearer picture of the fetal condition than ultrasound can provide.
Male infertility / male factor infertility - the inability of a male to make a fertile female pregnant for a minimum of at least 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse.
Malpresentation - an abnormal position of a baby's body or head during childbirth.
Mammary glands - the glands of the breast that produce breast milk.
Mastitis - an infection of a milk duct in the breast. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, redness, and fever. Treatment for mastitis includes massage, warm compress, continued breastfeeding from the infected side, and usually antibiotics.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist / perinatologist - an ob-gyn who specializes in the care of high-risk pregnancies.
Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein screening (MSAFP) - an optional blood test done between weeks 15 to 21 during pregnancy which can help detect neural tube and abdominal wall defects.
Maternity leave - paid or unpaid time off work to care for a new baby. Under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, companies with 50 or more employees are required to offer eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a new baby.
Meconium - a greenish-brown substance that comes from a baby's digestive tract and is ordinarily passed after delivery as the baby's first stool. Sometimes, the meconium is passed before birth, in which case it stains the amniotic fluid, turning it greenish brown.
Meconium aspiration - when meconium is present in the amniotic fluid during delivery and the newborn breathes it in, the meconium can irritate and possibly damage the airways. The mouth and nose are suctioned to prevent aspiration of meconium-stained fluid.
Meconium staining - when the baby passes meconium before birth into the amniotic fluid.
Menarche - the first menstrual period in a female adolescent.
Menopause - the stage of a woman's life, usually between 45 and 55, when her menstrual periods stop permanently, and she can no longer get pregnant. The transition to menopause can take several years, and may be accompanied by irregular periods, hot flashes, and urinary problems.
Menorrhagia - unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding during menstruation. It can be caused by hormone problems or problems with the uterus.
Menses - the blood and discharge that comes out of the uterus and through the vagina during menstruation.
Menstrual cycle / fertility cycle - the regular monthly reproductive cycle of a woman, including the growth of the lining of the uterus, the release of an egg and, if no fertilized egg is implanted, the expulsion of the uterine lining (the menstrual period). The typical cycle lasts 28 to 30 days and is counted from the first day of the period to the first day of the next period.
Menstruation / period - the shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus that happens monthly except during pregnancy.
Mercury - a toxic substance that can harm an unborn baby's developing brain and nervous system. Mercury is found in high concentrations in certain types of fish including shark, swordfish, tilefish and king mackerel.
Midwife - a person with training and professional experience who provides care to women during pregnancy and through labor and delivery. Midwives usually take a holistic and woman-focused approach to pregnancy and childbirth; many work with the backup support of a medical doctor.
Miscarriage - the spontaneous and involuntary loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, estimated to occur in 15 to 20 percent of all pregnancies. Most miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and many occur before a woman even knows she's pregnant.
Misoprostol - a drug used to soften the cervix and induce labor.
Missed miscarriage / missed spontaneous abortion - when an embryo or fetus dies in the womb during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy but does not expel from the uterus. Eventually the pregnancy will expel, but some women choose to undergo a D&C instead of waiting for it to happen.
Molding - the temporary reshaping of a baby's head to facilitate its passage through the birth canal.
Montgomery’s tubercles or follicles - the small goosebump-like glands that appear on the areola during pregnancy.
Motor skills - the different ways in which the body uses muscles to perform specific tasks.
Fine motor skills - using smaller muscles, especially in the hand and wrist. These include grasping skills as well as hand-eye coordination.
Gross motor skills - using larger muscles and muscle groups. Examples for gross motor skills in babies include rolling, crawling, and walking.
Morning sickness - nausea, vomiting and food and smell aversions, that affects more than 70 percent of pregnant women. Morning sickness, which can occur any time of day, usually begins at four to eight weeks gestation and subsides by week 14 or 16.
Morula - the stage in embryonic development consisting of a group of 16-32 cells, occurring after the fertilized egg stage (zygote), and before the cells reorganize to form a blastocyst.
Moxibustion - a traditional Chinese treatment that combines acupuncture and burning herbs. In pregnancy it may be used to help turn a breech baby.
Mucus plug - a gelatinous "cork" of mucus often tinted with blood that seals the opening of the uterus during pregnancy. At the start of labor, or in some cases, a few weeks before labor actually begins, this thick, gloppy, bloody plug becomes dislodged from the cervix and passes through the vagina.
Multigravida - a woman who has previously been pregnant.
Multipara - a woman who has previously had one or more babies.
Multiple pregnancy - when a woman has more than one fetus in the womb, as in the case of twins, triplets, or other higher order multiples.
Mutation - a noninherited genetic disorder that happens when an egg, sperm, or embryo undergoes spontaneous changes.
N
Naegele’s rule - The method used for estimating a pregnant woman's due date by taking the first day of the last menstrual period and adding 280 days.
Narcotics - drugs used to block or relieve the sensation of pain during labor and delivery, such as Demerol, which is a narcotic analgesic.
Natural childbirth - a term used to describe labor and delivery without medication and/or medical intervention.
Nausea - a queasy feeling in the stomach that can, but does not always, lead to vomiting. Nausea is very common in the first trimester.
Neonatal death - the death of a live-born baby anytime between birth and four weeks of age.
Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) - a special care nursery for sick and premature newborns. NICUs are staffed with specialists trained to care for babies with special needs and use advanced technology in the care of those babies.
Neonatal - the time from a baby's birth to four weeks of age.
Neonate - a newborn.
Neonatologist - a physician who specializes in the care of newborns.
Nesting instinct - toward the end of pregnancy, many pregnant women feel an urge to prepare for the impending birth. This burst of energy can lead an expectant mother to clean out the house or organize the nursery, among other behaviors.
Neural tube defect - a birth defect related to the baby's brain or spine.
Newborn - the term for a baby between birth and one month old. Also referred to as the neonatal period.
Nipple confusion - a newborn who switches back and forth between a bottle and a breast might experience confusion because the sucking techniques are different for each. Nipple confusion may make breastfeeding more difficult.
Non-reassuring fetal status - an indication, based on a nonstress test or other test, that a fetus might be in distress.
Nonstress test (NST) - a way to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. In a nonstress test, the expectant mother is hooked up to a fetal monitor and the response of the fetal heart rate to fetal movements is observed. If the heart rate doesn't respond as expected to fetal movement, the results are considered non-reassuring.
Normal spontaneous vaginal delivery (NSVD) - when a woman goes into labor without the aid of any labor inducing drugs or methods, and is able to deliver the baby without requiring a doctor's aid.
Nuchal cord - a condition in which the umbilical cord wraps around the fetus's neck in utero.
Nuchal fold thickness - a thickening of skin behind the fetal neck, visible via ultrasound, that may indicate an increased risk of Down syndrome or other conditions.
Nuchal translucency - an abnormal collection of fluid behind the fetal neck during the first trimester and visible via ultrasound. The presence of fluid can indicate increased risk of a chromosomal disorder or other birth defects.
Nulliparous - a woman who has never delivered a baby.
Nurse-midwife - a registered nurse who has completed graduate-level programs in midwifery. Most nurse-midwives have a collaborative relationship with a physician.
Nurse practitioner - a nurse who has completed a master's program in a specialty and is able to diagnose and treat conditions, as well as prescribe medications.
O
Obscructed labor - when labor does not progress.
Obstetrician - a physician specializing in obstetrics.
Obstetrician-gynecologist / OB/GYN - a physician specializing in women's reproductive health.
Obstetrics - the medical field dealing with the management of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
Occiput anterior position - when the baby faces the mother's spine in utero and/or during labor. This is the most common position for emerging babies.
Occiput posterior presentation - when the baby's head is facing away from the mother's spine. If a baby is in this position during labor, it can cause tremendous back pain for the mother, known as back labor.
Oligohydramnios - a condition in which there is too little amniotic fluid in the uterus. Though most times women diagnosed with oligohydramnios continue with a normal pregnancy, it can sometimes be a sign of fetal distress.
Omega-3 fatty acids - essential fatty acids such as DHA. DHA is a major component of the brain and retina and is essential for proper brain growth and eye development in a fetus and young baby. Eating a diet rich in DHA during pregnancy and while nursing is extremely important.
Oocyte - an immature egg. A female is born with 1 to 2 million oocytes. About 300,000 remain at puberty, and only about 400 mature into eggs and are released over the course of a female’s reproductive years (usually one per menstrual cycle). The rest degenerate and are gone by menopause.
Oophorectomy - surgery to remove an ovary.
Open adoption - an adoption that allows for some form of ongoing communication or relationship between the birth parents and adoptive family.
Operative vaginal delivery - a vaginal birth in which forceps or vacuum extraction is used.
Ovarian cyst - a small sac filled with fluid or semisolid material that forms on or within one or both of your ovaries.
Ovaries - the female reproductive organs that release eggs into the fallopian tubes, where they may be fertilized if sperm is present.
Ovulation - the monthly release of a mature egg from an ovary. A woman is most fertile around the time of ovulation.
Oxytocin - a hormone which facilitates labor, triggers lactation, and promotes feelings of connection and bonding.
Oxytocin challenge test (OCT) / contraction stress test - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. An OCT tests how the baby responds to the stress of uterine contractions. The expectant mother is hooked up to a fetal monitor and is given contraction-inducing oxytocin via an IV, while the baby is monitored to see how it responds to the contractions.
P
Palpation - a procedure in which a doctor or midwife feels the mother's abdomen to determine the position of the baby.
Pap smear / Pap test - a routine medical test to check for abnormalities in the cells of a woman's cervix such as cervical cancer and HPV. Females between the ages of 21 and 30 should get a Pap smear at least once every three years.
Paracervical block - the injection of a local anesthetic into the tissues around the cervix to relieve pain. May be used during childbirth.
Parenting plan - a formal agreement that details how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after a separation or divorce.
Parenting - the process of raising a child from birth to independent adulthood.
Parenting time / visitation - the scheduled periods when each parent gets time with their children, especially after a divorce.
Partial molar pregnancy - an abnormal pregnancy in which there is an abnormal mass growth and fetal tissues in the uterus.
Parturition - the act of giving birth.
Pasteurization - the process of heating certain foods to a specific temperature for a set period of time to kill harmful bacteria.
Paternity Adjudication - when a court names the legal father of a child whose parents are not married.
Paternity - the legal father of a child. Once a man is established as the legal father of a child, he has an obligation to financially support the child and he may ask for a court order for custody and parenting time.
Patient-controlled analgesia - intravenous pain medication controlled by a small pump, which is activated by a laboring woman to allow her to choose the amount of medicine she receives.
Peak day - the best time to conceive during the monthly cycle (ovulation). The woman may look for her vaginal discharge (cervical mucus) to have the consistency of egg white and for her basal body temperature to begin to rise.
Pediatrician - a physician who specializes in treating infants and children up to adolescence.
Pelvic adhesions - scar tissue from a cesarean section, D&C, laparoscopic or other surgery, or pelvic inflammatory disease that can obstruct the reproductive organs.
Pelvic exam - a physical examination of the pelvic organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.
Pelvic floor muscles - the muscles at the base of the pelvis that support the uterus, vagina, bladder and rectum. These muscles can be strengthened by doing Kegel exercises.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) - a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and cervix. PID can sometimes lead to infertility.
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) - a condition that causes one or more pelvic organs to drop down. This condition is caused by weakening of the muscles and tissues that support the organs in the pelvis, including the vagina, uterus, and bladder.
Pelvimetry - measurements of the dimensions of the pelvis to determine whether a vaginal birth might be problematic.
Pelvis - the bowl-shaped lower part of the abdomen between the hip bones.
Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling - a procedure that samples blood from the fetus's umbilical cord while the baby is still in utero. This procedure can be used to run tests on the baby’s blood and to transfuse blood to the baby in utero.
Perimenopause / menopausal transition - the transitional period before menopause when levels of estrogen start to decrease.
Perinatal - the time before, during, and immediately following birth.
Perineal massage - long recommended by midwives, perineal massage may help stretch the perineum in preparation for childbirth, minimize stinging when the baby's head passes through the vaginal opening, and may help avoid an episiotomy or tear. After thoroughly washing your hands, insert the thumbs or index fingers into the vagina, press downward (toward the rectum) and then slide the fingers across the bottom and up the sides of the perineum.
Perineal tear - a rip in the skin and muscles between the vagina and the rectum.
Perineum - the area between the vagina and rectum. The perineum may tear during childbirth.
Periodontitis - a gum disease that increases a woman's risk of having a premature or low birth weight baby.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) - a genetic abnormality in which the body lacks an enzyme needed for normal metabolism. If not carefully regulated by diet early in infancy, PKU can cause mental disability.
Physical custody - the right to make decisions about the routine day-to-day activities of the child and where the child lives. Physical custody can be sole (to one parent only) or joint (to both parents).
Pica - the urge some pregnant women have to eat nonfood items such as dirt, chalk or clay. It is thought to be connected to iron-deficiency anemia.
Pitocin - the brand name of a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin used to induce labor.
Pituitary gland - a gland at the base of the brain that, among other functions, produces the hormones that trigger ovulation and also signals the breasts to produce milk.
Placenta accreta - a condition in which the placenta grows deeply into the uterine wall. This makes it difficult to fully remove and increases the risk of bleeding after the baby is delivered.
Placenta - a pancake-shaped organ that develops in the uterus and provides nutrients and oxygen for the fetus and eliminates its waste products. The placenta attaches to the uterine wall. The baby is connected to the placenta with the umbilical cord. The expelling of the placenta after the baby is born is called the third stage of labor.
Placental abruption - a condition in which the placenta begins to separate from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born. Symptoms of an abruption usually include bleeding and abdominal pain.
Placenta previa - a condition in which the placenta attaches low in the uterus, fully or partially covering the cervix. The condition can cause bleeding during pregnancy or make vaginal delivery impossible.
Plasma protein A - a hormone produced by the fetus and passed into the mother's bloodstream. Levels of this hormone can be checked via a blood test during the first trimester. Low levels (combined with high levels of other hormones) can indicate an increased risk of the baby having Down syndrome.
Polycystic ovary syndrome - a condition in which a hormonal imbalance may prevent the egg-containing follicles on the ovaries from maturing and releasing an egg, instead forming ovarian cysts. This condition is often associated with infertility.
Polyhydramnios - the condition that exists when there is too much amniotic fluid in the uterus.
Port-wine stain - a birthmark in which swollen blood vessels create a reddish-purplish discoloration of the skin.
Positional plagiocephaly / flat head syndrome - a condition in which an infant’s head develops a flat spot or is misshapen, which can be prevented or reduced by giving them time on their tummy while awake and supervised. Flat head syndrome doesn’t cause any brain damage, but it can affect their appearance and hair growth.
Postdural puncture headache - a severe headache that results when the needle used for an epidural punctures the covering of the spinal cord, allowing spinal fluid to seep into the epidural space.
Postmature pregnancy - an infant born at 42 weeks or later is considered postmature.
Postnatal period - the time following delivery until four to six weeks after birth.
Postpartum care plan - a plan that you and your health care provider make together, often during pregnancy, that helps you prepare for your medical care after giving birth.
Postpartum depression - more severe than the more common baby blues, postpartum depression is characterized by crying, irritability, sleep problems, restlessness, feelings of hopelessness and the inability to care for the baby. Many women suffering from postpartum depression need professional treatment.
Postpartum endometritis - infection of the lining of the uterus following childbirth.
Postpartum hemorrhage - heavy bleeding from the uterus after delivery.
Postpartum psychosis - much rarer and more serious than postpartum depression, the symptoms of postpartum psychosis include loss of reality, hallucinations and/or delusions, as well as suicidal or aggressive thoughts. Professional treatment is needed immediately.
Postpartum - the first six weeks after delivery of a baby.
Postpartum thyroiditis - fluctuating thyroid function after childbirth. Symptoms begin with hyperthyroidism and can include fatigue, irritability, increased sweating, and insomnia, followed by hypothyroidism, with its symptoms of depression, muscle aches, hair loss, dry skin and poor memory.
Postterm pregnancy / overdue - a pregnancy that lasts 42 weeks or more.
Postterm pregnancy - a pregnancy that has lasted 42 weeks or more.
Precipitous birth - a very fast labor and delivery, usually fewer than three hours.
Preeclampsia - a complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms include rapid weight gain and increased swelling. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to the more serious eclampsia.
Pregnancy Discrimination Act - a federal law barring discrimination against women for conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth.
Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) - elevation of a pregnant woman's blood pressure, usually in the last trimester.
Pregnancy test - a test of a woman's blood or urine to determine whether she's pregnant. The test works by detecting the pregnancy hormone hCG in the urine or blood.
Pregnancy - the period in which a fetus develops inside a woman's uterus. Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks, or just over 9 months, as measured from the last menstrual period to delivery.
Prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) - the bursting of the amniotic sac before the onset of contractions. Usually, labor begins soon after rupture. Depending on when this occurs during pregnancy, the practitioner may induce or augment labor.
Premature baby - a baby born before 37 weeks gestation.
Premature delivery - giving birth before the 37th week of pregnancy.
Premature labor - labor that occurs after 20 weeks gestation but before 37 weeks.
Premature menopause - menopause that happens before age 40.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - a group of physical and emotional symptoms that start one to two weeks before your period.
Prenatal - before birth.
Prenatal care - medical care during pregnancy, which can help keep the mother and fetus healthy, spot health problems early, and prepare for delivery. Your provider will give you a schedule for your prenatal visits, but usually they occur once a month for the first and second trimesters, twice a month for weeks 28 through 36, and weekly for week 36 until the baby is born.
Prenatal vitamins - daily supplements for women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. These supplements contain the vitamins and minerals needed to support healthy fetal development.
Prepregnancy care - medical care that is given before pregnancy to improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. This care includes a physical exam; counseling about nutrition, exercise, and medications; and treatment of medical conditions that may affect the pregnancy.
Presentation - the position of the baby such as feet down (breech) or head down (vertex) inside a woman's uterus at term.
Presenting part - the part of the baby’s body that leads the way during labor and delivers first.
Preterm baby - a baby born before 37 weeks gestation.
Preterm delivery - the birth of a baby before 37 weeks gestation.
Preterm labor - labor that begins after 20 weeks and before 37 weeks gestation. Prompt medical treatment can sometimes halt or postpone early labor, improving the baby's chances for survival.
Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) - the bursting of the amniotic sac before 37 weeks gestation.
Primary ovarian insufficiency - a condition that causes the ovaries to stop working normally before age 40.
Primigravida - a woman pregnant for the first time.
Primipara - a woman who has given birth for the first time to a baby older than 20 weeks gestation.
Prodromal labor - contractions (such as Braxton Hicks) that occur before true labor begins. Considered false labor.
Progesterone - a hormone produced by the ovaries that helps to regulate a woman's reproductive cycle. It also keeps the uterus from contracting during pregnancy and promotes the growth of the blood vessels in the uterus.
Prolactin - the hormone that activates a mother's milk-producing glands. While pregnant, prolactin levels rise and stay elevated if you are breastfeeding.
Prolapsed cord - when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix or into the vagina ahead of the baby during delivery. If compressed, it may cut off the baby's blood and oxygen supply.
Prolonged labor - a labor that lasts 18 to 24 hours.
Prolonged pregnancy - a pregnancy that lasts longer than 40 weeks of gestation.
Prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) - an individual or married couple that is going through the process to become adoptive parents.
Prostaglandins - hormones produced by the uterus to prepare the cervix and bring on labor.
Prostate gland - a male gland that makes most of the fluid for ejaculation.
Proteinuria - when excess protein is found in the urine. It is often a sign of preeclampsia.
Protracted labor - a labor that lasts longer than expected.
Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) - small, itchy pimples that break out on the stretch marks, thighs, buttocks, or arms of a pregnant woman. These lesions aren't dangerous and generally disappear after delivery.
Pruritus gravidarum - itching during pregnancy.
Puberty - the stage of life that leads to sexual maturity. It includes change in the external genitals, the appearance of pubic hair, and growth spurts.
Pubic symphysis dysfunction - pain in the pubic symphysis during or after pregnancy. It is caused by a misalignment of the pelvis and/or pubic bones due to their stretching apart during pregnancy or following birth.
Pubic symphysis - the front part of the pelvis. During pregnancy, the practitioner will use this point to measure the growth of the uterus.
Pudendal block - a regional nerve block used during labor. It is administered through a needle into the perineal or vaginal area and reduces pain in the region but not uterine discomfort. It's often used when forceps or vacuum extraction is used.
Puerperium - the span of time from the end of delivery until the uterus returns to its prepregnancy state, usually about six weeks.
Putative father - a man who has not been established as the legal father but may be the biological father of a child, and who was not married to the mother when the child was born.
Pyogenic granuloma of pregnancy - a lesion a pregnant woman may have on her gums that bleeds easily. It is perfectly harmless and goes away on its own after delivery.
Q
Quad screen - a prenatal blood test performed between 15 and 22 weeks to check levels of four substances (AFP, hCG, estriol and inhibin-A) that help determine whether a fetus is at increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities or neural tube defects.
Quickening - the first fetal movements felt by a pregnant woman, usually between 18 and 22 weeks gestation. The sensation is often described as a fluttering in the abdomen or butterflies in the stomach.
R
Rape - penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.
Recognition of Parentage (ROP) form - document that establishes a legal relationship between a man and a child when the man is not married to the child's mother.
Rectum - the lower part of the large intestine, ending in the anal opening.
Rectus abdominis - the central muscle that runs down the front of the abdomen and supports the back. During pregnancy it may separate, but it returns to normal after delivery.
Recurrent miscarriage / recurrent spontaneous abortion - when a woman has had two or more miscarriages.
Regional anesthesia - numbing a part of the body during labor. An epidural is a regional anesthesia because it numbs only the lower part of the body.
Relaxin - the hormone that causes joints and ligaments to soften and become stretched during pregnancy, allowing the pelvic bones to expand more easily during labor and delivery. Relaxin is also responsible for body changes, such as an increase in an expectant mother's foot size.
Relexology - a CAM therapy in which pressure is applied to specific areas of the feet, hands and ears to relieve a variety of aches and pains. Applying pressure to certain areas on or near the feet can trigger contractions, so it is best to avoid reflexology of the feet during pregnancy.
Reproductive organs - the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, vagina, penis, and testes. Organs that relate to reproduction.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) - a condition that affects one in four pregnant women. Symptoms include a feeling of restlessness, creepy-crawly feelings and tingling in the legs or feet that keeps the rest of the body from settling down at night. The cause is unknown but usually disappears after delivery.
Retained placenta - a placenta that remains in the uterus for 30 minutes or more after delivery. The practitioner will sometimes need to manually remove the placenta when this occurs.
Retroverted uterus - in 20 percent of women, the top of the uterus is tilted toward the back instead of the front. In most cases, the uterus rights itself by the end of the first trimester.
Rh factor - a protein that is found on red blood cells. If the Rh factor protein is present on the cells, a person is Rh-positive. If there is no Rh factor protein, the person is Rh-negative. An Rh-negative woman carrying an Rh-positive fetus may produce antibodies that attack the fetus's blood.
Rh immunoglobulin / RhoGAM (Rhlg) - a specially developed blood product that can prevent an Rh-negative mother's antibodies from attacking the fetus's Rh-positive cells. Rh-negative women will receive Rh immunoglobulin around the 28th week of pregnancy or at the time of an amniocentesis.
Rh incompatibility - a condition in which a baby's blood type and Rh factor is incompatible with the mother's. If carefully monitored and treated, a woman whose Rh factor is incompatible with her fetus's will usually give birth to a healthy baby.
Ripening / effacement - thinning and softening of the cervix in preparation for delivery.
Rooming-in - when a newborn stays in the same room as the mother in a hospital rather than staying in the hospital nursery.
Rooting - one of the reflexes present at birth in which the baby opens his or her mouth and turns the head to nurse when the cheek is stroked.
Round ligament pain - discomfort in the lower abdomen and groin during pregnancy as the ligaments that hold the expanding uterus stretch.
Rubella - also called German measles, rubella is a highly contagious viral disease with a mild red rash that can cause serious birth defects in a fetus if a pregnant woman is afflicted. Women who haven't had it should make sure they're immunized before conception.
Rupture of membranes - the bursting of the sac holding the amniotic fluid, usually a sign that labor will soon begin or has already begun.
S
Saddle block - a regional nerve block anesthetic that is injected into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord and used to block the pain associated with a forceps or vacuum extraction delivery.
Safe sex / safer sex - practices that reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy, such as consistently and correctly using condoms.
Safety plan - a personalized, practical plan to improve your safety while experiencing abuse, preparing to leave an abusive situation, or after you leave.
Sanitary pad - an absorbent reusable or disposable lining made of cotton or similar materials worn in underwear to absorb menstrual flow.
Sciatica - a painful condition characterized by pain in lower back, buttocks and leg. In pregnant women, it is often caused by pressure of the enlarging uterus on the sciatic nerve. Rest, CAM, or a heating pad may ease the pain.
Sciatic nerve - the largest nerve in the body that runs from the buttocks down the length of the thigh. It provides sensory and motor function to the lower extremities.
Scrotum - the male genital sac that holds the testicles.
Sea-bands - elastic bands worn on both wrists that put pressure on acupressure points on the inner wrists and often relieve nausea. May be used to treat morning sickness.
Secondary infertility - when a woman is unable to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term after already having had a child.
Secondhand smoke - when a person inhales the smoke exhaled by a smoker. Secondhand smoke, like smoking, is dangerous for a developing fetus.
Second trimester - the middle stage of pregnancy, typically lasting from weeks 14 to 27.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) - a class of antidepressant medications often given to new mothers suffering from postpartum depression.
Semen - the fluid made by male sex glands that contains sperm.
Seminal fluid - a liquid that nourishes and helps sperm to move.
Septic abortion - an abortion or miscarriage that leads to infection.
Sexual assault - sexual contact or behavior that happens without explicit consent of the victim.
Sexual coercion - when someone pressures, uses drugs or alcohol, or forces sexual contact with a person against his or her will.
Sexually transmitted disease (STD) - a disease that is primarily spread through sexual contact.
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) - an infection that is spread by sexual contact, which may progress into a disease (an STD).
Shaken baby syndrome / abusive head trauma - a type of severe child abuse that occurs when a caregiver violently shakes a child, most often occurring when a caregiver becomes frustrated when a baby won’t stop crying. Injuries can occur from as little as 5 seconds of shaking, which can lead to brain damage, permanent disabilities, or death.
Shoulder dystocia - an emergency situation during labor when one or both of a fetus’s shoulders get stuck inside the woman’s body after the fetus’s head has come out. Extra steps may be needed to deliver the baby.
Sickle-cell anemia - a genetic disorder that causes abnormally shaped red blood cells.
Side-lying position - breastfeeding position in which the baby and mother lie on their sides facing each other.
Sitz bath - a shallow, tepid bath often recommended to soothe the discomfort and pain of episiotomy stitches postpartum.
Small for gestational age (SGA) - a baby who is not growing as well as it should given his or her gestational age. Unlike premature babies, SGA babies are small because of slow development, not because they've had less time in the womb.
Sole custody - when only one of the parents has both legal custody (the right and responsibility to make major decisions concerning the child) and physical custody (responsible for the physical care and supervision of the child).
Sonogram - an ultrasound image of a baby. Sonograms are performed with an ultrasound machine. Practitioners will often give expectant parents paper copies of their sonogram images to take home.
Sonographer - the technician who performs an ultrasound examination.
Sore nipples - tender, red, cracked and painful nipples caused by breastfeeding. Proper positioning of the baby, as well as other remedies can help.
Speculum - a plastic or metal instrument used to separate the walls of the vagina so a doctor or nurse can examine the vagina and cervix.
Sperm motility - the ability of sperm to move and swim quickly.
Sperm - the male reproductive cells produced by the testicles. Sperm is deposited by the male into the female's vagina and fertilizes an egg to produce an embryo.
Spider veins - small red or blue blood vessels that appear close to the skin's surface and resemble a spider. Spider veins may result from the hormonal changes of pregnancy and usually fade after delivery.
Spina bifida - a neural tube defect resulting from the improper closure of the fetal spine. Folic acid reduces the likelihood of spina bifida, and women are advised to take supplements (in the form of prenatal vitamins) before and during pregnancy
Spinal block - a labor anesthetic that is injected into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord.
Spinal headache - a headache that results when the needle used for a spinal anesthesia or an epidural punctures the covering of the spinal cord, allowing spinal fluid to seep into the epidural space.
Spontaneous abortion / spontaneous miscarriage - the spontaneous and involuntary loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, estimated to occur in 15 to 20 percent of all pregnancies. It usually takes place during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and many occur before a woman even knows she's pregnant.
Spontaneous labor - labor that begins on its own without any medical augmentation. During the first phase of labor, the cervix dilates and thins out and contractions begin, usually lasting 30 to 45 seconds each with five to 20 minutes between them.
Spotting - any type of bloody discharge from the vagina.
Squat bar - a U-shaped bar that attaches to a birthing bed allowing a laboring woman to squat when she's ready to push the baby out during childbirth.
Stages of labor - labor is divided into three stages: The first stage begins at the onset of contractions and ends when the cervix is completely dilated. The second stage is the delivery of the baby. The third stage is delivery of the placenta.
Station - an indication of how far the presenting part of the baby (usually the head) has progressed through the pelvis. A baby who has just begun to descend may be at -4 or -5 station. A fully engaged baby (one whose head has reached the bony landmarks of the pelvis) is said to be at “zero station.” As the head continues to descend through the pelvis, it is considered +1 or +2 station until it crowns at the vaginal opening at +5 station.
Steroids - synthetic hormones that may be given to a pregnant woman with preterm labor in an effort to speed the maturation of the fetus's lungs.
Stillbirth - the death of a baby after 20 weeks gestation but before birth.
Stillborn - a baby showing no signs of life at birth.
Stress incontinence - the inability to hold in urine. Many women find they leak urine during the last trimester when they laugh, cough, or sneeze. It is a result of the mounting pressure of the growing uterus on the bladder. Some women also experience stress incontinence postpartum as a result of the stretching of the perineal muscles. Kegel exercises can help strengthen the muscles.
Stretch marks / striae - Discolored linear patterns that result from stretching of the skin. In pregnancy, stretch marks may appear on the abdomen, breasts, buttocks and legs; they usually fade slowly after delivery.
Stripping of the membranes / sweeping of the membranes - a technique used to encourage the onset of labor. The practitioner inserts a finger between the membranes and the wall of the uterus to loosen the membranes from the wall.
Suckling - when the baby breastfeeds.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) - the sudden death of an infant from unexplained causes. SIDS occurs most frequently in infants two to four months old. One way to reduce the risk of SIDS is to keep the baby’s sleeping environment free from loose bedding and lay the baby down to sleep on their back, not their side or tummy.
Surfactant - a substance made in a baby's lungs, allowing the lungs to remain inflated so they can breathe at birth.
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) - pain in the pubis symphysis during or after pregnancy. It is caused by a misalignment of the pelvis and/or public bones due to their stretching apart during pregnancy or after delivery.
Symphysis pubis - the front part of the pelvis. During pregnancy, a practitioner will use this point to measure the growth of the uterus.
Syphilis - a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by an organism called Treponema pallidum. This infection may cause major health problems or death in its later stages.
Systolic blood pressure - the upper number in a blood pressure reading, representing the amount of pressure when the heart is contracted.
T
Tampon - a firm, disposable roll of absorbent cotton or other fiber that goes inside the vagina to absorb menstrual blood.
Tay-Sachs disease - a genetic disorder in which the baby lacks an essential enzyme and dies in early childhood. A preconception test can determine whether potential parents are carriers of the disease.
Teratogens - substances that can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to them during pregnancy.
Teratoma - a noncancerous mass on the ovary.
Terbutaline - a medication used to halt the contractions of preterm labor.
Term - the length of a pregnancy, or 40 weeks.
Testicles / testes - paired male organs that make sperm and the sex hormone testosterone.
Testosterone - A hormone made by the testes and in smaller amounts by the ovaries. This hormone is responsible for masculine characteristics such as hair growth, muscle development, and a lower voice.
Thalassemia - an inherited genetic disorder of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
Thelarche - the time during puberty when breasts begin to develop.
Third trimester - the final stage of pregnancy, typically lasting from week 28 to 40. It is a time of significant fetal growth and development, as well as preparation for the baby's birth.
Threatened miscarriage / threatened abortion - anytime there is vaginal bleeding during the first half of pregnancy, the pregnancy is considered threatened. The expectant mother may undergo a physical examination and tests to determine the cause of the bleeding, and treatment will be initiated if necessary.
Tilted uterus / tipped uterus - in 20 percent of women, the top of the uterus is tilted toward the back instead of the front. In most cases, the uterus rights itself by the end of the first trimester.
Tocodynamometer (TOCO) - a pressure-sensitive device used to monitor the frequency and duration of contractions during labor and pregnancy. As labor progresses, contractions get longer, harder and stronger, thus increasing your TOCO number.
Tocolysis - the administration of medications to stop uterine contractions during premature labor.
Toxic shock syndrome - a severe illness caused by a bacterial infection. It can be caused by leaving a tampon in the vagina too long.
Toxoplasmosis - a parasitic infection carried in cat feces and uncooked meat that can be dangerous to the fetus if contracted by a pregnant woman. Pregnant women are advised to avoid contact with cat feces.
Transducer - the device used in ultrasound that emits sound waves and transmits them to a computer, resulting in the ultrasound image.
Transitional labor - the end of the first stage of labor when the cervix dilates from eight to ten centimeters. This is the most demanding stage of labor because the contractions are very strong, very close together, and very long. The transition stage lasts only a short time.
Transverse - when the fetus is turned sideways in the uterus.
Trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) - attempting labor after having a prior cesarean in the hope of having a vaginal birth instead of another cesarean section.
Trimester - a time span of three months. Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each approximately 13 to 14 weeks long. Generally speaking, each trimester is marked by different phases of fetal development.
Triple screen / Triple test / Multiple marker screening - a blood test given to a woman between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy to screen for an increased risk of the baby having a birth defect. High levels of AFP may be associated with a neural tube defect; low levels may be associated with Down syndrome. The test is used to decide whether more invasive testing, such as an amniocentesis, is needed.
Trophoblastic disease - an abnormal pregnancy in which there is no fetus, only an abnormal mass growth.
Tummy time - the practice of laying a baby on their stomachs for brief periods while they're awake and while being supervised. Tummy time helps babies strengthen their muscles, improve motor skills, and prevent flat spots on the back of their head.
Twin-to-twin transfusion - when identical twins share a placenta and blood flow becomes uneven. This causes one twin to have too much blood and the other too little.
Typical use - the effectiveness of a contraceptive method when used in a real-world setting, taking into account human error and inconsistent use.
U
Ultrasound / ultrasonography / sonography / scan - a procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to examine inner parts of the body. During pregnancy, ultrasound is routinely used to monitor the health and development of the fetus.
Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. Through the use of ultrasound, the flow of blood through the umbilical artery is assessed. A weak, absent, or reverse flow indicates the fetus is not getting adequate nourishment.
Umbilical cord - the flexible cord of tissue connecting the fetus to the placenta that brings oxygen and nutrients from the expectant mother to the fetus and removes waste products.
Undescended testicles - failure of a baby boy's testicles to descend into the scrotum by the time he is born. Many times the condition corrects itself. Other cases need to be surgically corrected.
Unhealthy relationship - the opposite of a healthy relationship; characterized by a lack of communication, respect, honesty, trust, equality, and having personal time away from each other. An unhealthy relationship can lead to an abusive relationship.
Unprotected sex - having oral, vaginal, or anal sex without using protection, like condoms or birth control. Unprotected sex can increase your chances of STDs and/or unintended pregnancy.
Unripe cervix - when the cervix is not ready for delivery. Usually, as the end of pregnancy approaches, the cervix moves forward in the pelvis and begin to soften. If the cervix does not soften on its own, prostaglandins may be needed to ripen it to jump-start labor or to prepare for an induction.
Urinary incontinence - involuntary loss of urine. Many women find they leak urine during the last trimester when they laugh, cough, or sneeze. It is a result of the mounting pressure of the growing uterus on the bladder. Some women also experience stress incontinence postpartum as a result of the stretching of the perineal muscles. Kegel exercises can help strengthen the muscles.
Urinary tract infection (UTI) - an infection anywhere in the urinary system, usually in the bladder. Symptoms include fever, increased need to urinate, or a burning sensation while urinating. UTIs are common during pregnancy and are treated with antibiotics.
Urologist - a doctor who specializes in treating problems of the kidneys, bladder, and male reproductive system.
Uterine inversion - after the delivery of a baby, if the placenta doesn't detach completely from the uterus, it pulls the top of the uterus out with it when it emerges. In most cases, the uterus can be pushed back into place by hand; if not, surgery is required.
Uterine involution - the postpartum process of the uterus returning to its normal size after the birth of a baby.
Uterine perforation - when a doctor or nurse accidentally punctures the wall of the uterus with a surgical instrument during a procedure or with an IUD during insertion.
Uterine rupture - when the scar from a previous cesarean ruptures during labor. Signs of a rupture include searing pain in the abdomen and fetal distress. Immediate cesarean is necessary, followed by repair of the uterus, if possible.
Uterus / womb - a muscular organ in the female pelvis. During pregnancy, this organ holds and nourishes the fetus.
V
Vacuum-assisted birth - when vacuum extraction is used during childbirth.
Vacuum extraction - a procedure used as an alternative to forceps when a baby is stuck in the birth canal during delivery. A plastic cup is applied to the baby's head, and, with gentle suction, the baby is eased out of the birth canal.
Vaginal atrophy / atrophic vaginitis - a condition caused by a lack of estrogen, occurring most often after menopause. Vaginal symptoms may include tissue changes, itching, burning, irritation, discharge, dryness, or inflammation.
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) - the vaginal birth of a baby after a woman has already delivered by cesarean in a prior pregnancy.
Vaginal birth - the birth of a baby through the birth canal, as opposed to a cesarean section, which is the birth of a baby through a surgical incision in the abdomen and uterus.
Vaginal discharge - fluid that comes from the vagina and happens throughout the menstrual cycle. Normal discharge can be thick or thin, clear, white, or yellow.
Vagina - the female genital passage that leads from the uterus to the outside of the body.
Vaginitis - an infection in the vagina. Symptoms may include green, yellow, or strong smelling discharge, burning, itching or soreness.
Varicose veins - swollen veins, usually in the legs, common during pregnancy because of increased blood volume and increased pressure on the veins from the growing uterus. They usually disappear after delivery.
Venous thrombosis - a blood clot that develops in a vein, usually in a leg. Pregnant women are more susceptible to clots during pregnancy and postpartum.
Vernix caseosa - a greasy white substance that covers the fetus in utero. The vernix protects the fetus from the amniotic fluid and makes the baby slippery and easier to deliver.
Vertex presentation - a head-down position of a fetus before birth.
Very low birth weight baby - a baby weighing less than three pounds three ounces at birth.
Viability - the ability of a fetus to survive outside the uterus.
Vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) / fetal acoustic stimulation - a test to check on how the baby is doing while inside the uterus. A sound-and-vibration producing instrument is placed on the abdomen to determine the fetus's response to sound or vibrations.
Virginity - the state of never having had sexual intercourse.
Vulva - a woman's external genital organs, including the labia and clitoris.
W
Walking epidural / combined spinal-epidural (CSE) - an epidural (injected anesthesia) that maintains sensation in the legs, allowing a laboring woman to stand or walk.
Water birth - a type of childbirth in which a woman labors and/or gives birth in water, usually in a sterile birthing tub or pool.
Well-woman visit - a routine checkup with a healthcare professional that focuses on sexual, reproductive, and overall health.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) - a federal nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC) that provides food, health care, and nutrition education to low-income families.
X
X chromosome - one of two chromosomes that determine a person’s sex. Egg cells carry only the X chromosome.
X-linked disorders - genetic disorders caused by defective genes located on the X chromosome.
Y
Y chromosome - one of two chromosomes that determine a person’s sex. Sperm cells can carry a Y chromosome or an X chromosome.
Yeast infection / candidiasis - a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of a fungus; common during pregnancy. Symptoms include itching and a white strong-smelling discharge from the vagina.
Z
Zika - a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread through mosquito bites. Infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects.
Zidovudine (ZDV) - a drug used to treat an HIV-positive expectant mother.
Zygote - the fertilized egg before it begins to divide and grow into an embryo.