Pregnancy Glossary

A prenatal diagnostic test in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the uterus using a thin needle guided by ultrasound. The fluid contains fetal cells that can be analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities, genetic disorders, and neural tube defects. It is typically offered between 15-20 weeks.

The protective liquid that surrounds and cushions the fetus within the amniotic sac throughout pregnancy. This fluid allows the baby to move freely, helps maintain consistent temperature, and protects against injury. The amount of amniotic fluid increases until about 36 weeks, then gradually decreases.

A quick assessment of a newborn's health performed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth. The test evaluates five criteria: Appearance (skin color), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex response), Activity (muscle tone), and Respiration (breathing). Each category is scored 0-2, with a total possible score of 10.

Also called "practice contractions," these are irregular, usually painless uterine contractions that can begin as early as the second trimester. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions do not cause cervical dilation, do not become stronger or more frequent, and typically stop with movement or hydration.

A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. C-sections may be planned in advance due to medical conditions or performed as an emergency during labor. Recovery typically takes longer than vaginal delivery and involves specific postoperative care.

The lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina. During pregnancy, the cervix remains closed and firm to protect the developing baby. As labor approaches, the cervix softens, thins (effaces), and opens (dilates) to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal.

The first form of breast milk produced during late pregnancy and the first few days after birth. Often called "liquid gold" due to its yellowish color, colostrum is rich in antibodies, nutrients, and proteins that help protect the newborn from infections and promote healthy development.

Rhythmic tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles that help open the cervix and push the baby down the birth canal during labor. True labor contractions become progressively stronger, longer, and closer together over time, unlike Braxton Hicks contractions which are irregular and don't intensify.

A prenatal diagnostic test performed between 10-13 weeks of pregnancy that involves taking a small tissue sample from the placenta. CVS can detect chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome and certain genetic disorders earlier than amniocentesis, allowing for earlier decision-making.

The opening of the cervix measured in centimeters during labor. The cervix must dilate from closed (0 cm) to fully dilated (10 cm) before the baby can be born vaginally. Dilation is one of the key indicators healthcare providers use to assess labor progress.

A handheld ultrasound device used to listen to the fetal heartbeat during prenatal appointments. The Doppler detects the baby's heartbeat typically starting around 10-12 weeks of pregnancy. It provides reassurance to parents and allows healthcare providers to monitor fetal well-being.

A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Unlike midwives, doulas do not provide medical care but focus on comfort measures, advocacy, and emotional support throughout the birth experience.

The estimated date when a baby is expected to be born, calculated as 40 weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period or adjusted based on ultrasound measurements. Only about 5% of babies are born exactly on their due date; most arrive within two weeks before or after.

Swelling caused by fluid retention, commonly affecting the feet, ankles, hands, and face during pregnancy. Mild edema is normal and results from increased blood volume and pressure from the growing uterus. Sudden severe swelling, especially in the face, may indicate preeclampsia and requires medical attention.

The thinning and shortening of the cervix that occurs before and during labor, measured as a percentage from 0% to 100%. A cervix that is 100% effaced has thinned completely. Effacement often begins before dilation and both must occur for vaginal delivery.

The developing baby during the first eight weeks after fertilization. During this critical period, all major organs and body systems begin to form, including the heart, brain, spinal cord, and limbs. The embryonic stage is particularly sensitive to environmental factors and teratogens.

A condition where the breasts become overly full, swollen, and often painful due to milk accumulation. Engorgement commonly occurs when mature milk first comes in and can happen anytime breastfeeding is interrupted. Relief measures include frequent nursing, warm compresses, and gentle massage.

A regional anesthesia technique commonly used during labor to reduce pain. It involves injecting medication into the epidural space around the spinal cord through a small catheter in the lower back. An epidural numbs the lower body while allowing the mother to remain awake and alert during delivery.

The term used to describe the developing baby from the end of the eighth week of pregnancy until birth. Before this stage, the developing baby is called an embryo. During the fetal period, all major organs continue to mature and the baby grows significantly in size and weight.

A pregnancy that has reached between 39 weeks 0 days and 40 weeks 6 days of gestation. Babies born at full term have the lowest risk of health problems compared to those born earlier or later. The term "full term" replaced "term" to more precisely define the optimal timing for birth.

Tests performed during pregnancy to assess the risk of the baby having certain genetic conditions or chromosomal abnormalities. Screening tests, unlike diagnostic tests, indicate probability rather than certainty. Common screenings include first-trimester screening, quad screening, and cell-free DNA testing.

The period of time between conception and birth during which the fetus develops inside the uterus. A full-term gestation in humans is approximately 40 weeks, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. Gestational age is used to track fetal development and determine the due date.

A type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who did not have diabetes before becoming pregnant. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to handle the effects of pregnancy hormones. Most cases are managed through diet and exercise, though some require medication.

A severe form of morning sickness characterized by persistent, excessive nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalances. This condition affects about 1-3% of pregnancies and often requires medical treatment, including IV fluids and anti-nausea medications.

A medical procedure to stimulate labor contractions before they begin naturally. Labor may be induced for various reasons, including going past the due date, preeclampsia, or other health concerns. Methods include medications like Pitocin, membrane stripping, or artificial rupture of membranes.

The process of producing and secreting breast milk from the mammary glands. Lactation begins with colostrum production late in pregnancy, with mature milk typically coming in 2-5 days after birth. Hormones prolactin and oxytocin regulate milk production and let-down.

The way a baby attaches to the breast during breastfeeding. A proper latch involves the baby taking a large portion of the areola into their mouth, not just the nipple. Good latch is essential for effective milk transfer and preventing nipple pain and damage.

Also called the milk ejection reflex, this is the release of milk from the breast triggered by the hormone oxytocin. The let-down may be stimulated by the baby sucking, hearing the baby cry, or even thinking about the baby. Mothers may feel a tingling sensation when let-down occurs.

A dark vertical line that appears on the abdomen during pregnancy, running from the pubic area to the belly button or higher. This hyperpigmentation is caused by increased melanin production due to pregnancy hormones and typically fades after delivery, though it may take several months.

A trained healthcare professional who specializes in providing care to women during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. Midwives focus on supporting natural birth processes and providing personalized care. They may work in hospitals, birthing centers, or attend home births.

Nausea and vomiting that commonly occurs during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Despite its name, morning sickness can happen at any time of day. It typically begins around week 6, peaks around weeks 8-11, and usually improves by weeks 12-14 for most women.

Childbirth that occurs with minimal medical intervention, typically without pain medication or epidural anesthesia. Natural birth often involves using breathing techniques, movement, water immersion, and other non-pharmacological methods for pain management. It can occur at home, in a birthing center, or in a hospital.

A specialized hospital unit that provides intensive care for newborns who are premature, have low birth weight, or have serious health conditions. NICUs are staffed by specially trained healthcare professionals and equipped with advanced technology to support vulnerable newborns.

A physician who specializes in women's reproductive health, including pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. OB-GYNs are trained to handle both routine pregnancies and high-risk situations, and they can perform cesarean sections and other surgical procedures when necessary.

A pregnancy that extends beyond 42 weeks of gestation. When a pregnancy goes past the due date, healthcare providers monitor the baby closely because risks can increase. Labor is often induced before or at 42 weeks to prevent potential complications.

A temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, connecting the mother to the fetus through the umbilical cord. The placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby, removes waste products, and produces hormones essential for maintaining pregnancy. It is delivered after the baby during the third stage of labor.

The period following childbirth, typically referring to the first six weeks after delivery but sometimes extending to the first year. Postnatal care focuses on the physical and emotional recovery of the mother, newborn health monitoring, and establishing breastfeeding when applicable.

The period immediately following childbirth, generally considered the first six weeks after delivery. During this time, the mother's body undergoes significant changes as it returns to a non-pregnant state. Postpartum care addresses physical recovery, hormonal changes, mental health, and adjustment to caring for a newborn.

A serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can be dangerous for both mother and baby if left untreated. Symptoms include severe headaches, vision changes, and swelling.

Refers to the period before birth, encompassing all care, tests, and activities related to pregnancy before delivery. Prenatal care includes regular checkups with healthcare providers, screening tests, ultrasounds, and monitoring of both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.

A birth that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm babies may face health challenges because their organs have not fully developed. The earlier a baby is born, the higher the risk of complications. Preterm birth is classified as early preterm (before 34 weeks) or late preterm (34-36 weeks).

Sharp or stabbing pain on one or both sides of the lower abdomen or groin area during pregnancy. It occurs when the ligaments supporting the uterus stretch as the uterus grows. The pain is often triggered by sudden movements like sneezing, coughing, or changing positions.

Streaky lines that appear on the skin when it stretches rapidly during pregnancy, typically on the belly, breasts, hips, and thighs. Initially red or purple, stretch marks fade to silvery-white over time. Genetics play a significant role in whether someone develops stretch marks during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each lasting approximately 13 weeks. The first trimester covers weeks 1-13, the second trimester spans weeks 14-27, and the third trimester includes weeks 28-40. Each trimester brings distinct developmental milestones for the baby and physical changes for the mother.

A diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the developing baby, placenta, and reproductive organs. Ultrasounds are used throughout pregnancy to confirm pregnancy, estimate due date, monitor fetal growth, check amniotic fluid levels, and screen for abnormalities.

The flexible, tube-like structure that connects the fetus to the placenta in the uterus. It contains two arteries and one vein that transport oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and baby. The cord is typically cut after birth, leaving behind the baby's belly button.

The hollow, muscular organ in the female reproductive system where the fertilized egg implants and the fetus develops during pregnancy. Also called the womb, the uterus expands dramatically during pregnancy to accommodate the growing baby and contracts powerfully during labor to deliver the baby.

Enlarged, twisted veins that typically appear in the legs during pregnancy. They develop because increased blood volume and pressure from the uterus make it harder for blood to flow back to the heart from the lower body. Compression stockings and elevating the legs can help manage symptoms.

The delivery of a baby through the vagina after having had a previous cesarean section. VBAC can be a safe option for many women, depending on the type of uterine incision from the previous C-section and other factors. Success rates vary, and careful monitoring during labor is essential.