A
Amniocentesis
A test where a small amount of amniotic fluid is removed to check for genetic disorders.
Testing & ScreeningAFP screening
A blood test measuring Alpha-Fetoprotein to screen for certain birth defects.
Testing & ScreeningAnatomy scan
A detailed ultrasound typically done around 20 weeks to check the baby's physical development.
Testing & ScreeningAfterpains
Cramps similar to menstrual cramps that happen as the uterus shrinks back to its normal size after birth.
PostpartumB
Baby blues
Brief feelings of sadness or mood swings common in the first few days after giving birth.
PostpartumC
Contractions
The tightening and relaxing of the uterus that helps push the baby down the birth canal.
Labor & DeliveryC-section (Cesarean Delivery)
A C-section is a surgical way of giving birth, in which a baby is delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It's sometimes planned and sometimes needed unexpectedly, always with the goal of keeping both mother and baby safe.
Labor & DeliveryD
Due date
The estimated date your baby will be born, usually 40 weeks from your last period.
Pregnancy TermsDating scan
An early ultrasound used to confirm your due date and check the baby's heartbeat.
Testing & ScreeningDilation
The opening of the cervix during labor, measured from 0 to 10 centimeters.
Labor & DeliveryDiastasis recti
The separation of the abdominal muscles that can happen during pregnancy.
PostpartumE
Effacement
The thinning and shortening of your cervix during late pregnancy and labor, measured as a percentage from 0% (thick) to 100% (paper-thin).
Medical Definition
Cervical thinning and shortening measured in percentage.
Epidural
A common type of pain relief given through a small tube in your lower back during labor.
Labor & DeliveryEngorgement
When breasts become overly full of milk, feeling hard and sometimes painful.
PostpartumF
First trimester
The first 12 weeks of pregnancy, a crucial time for your baby's development.
Pregnancy TermsG
Gestational age
The age of your pregnancy, counted from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Pregnancy TermsGlucose tolerance test
A test to check how your body processes sugar, used to diagnose gestational diabetes.
Testing & ScreeningGroup B strep
A common bacterium tested for late in pregnancy to prevent passing it to the baby during birth.
Testing & ScreeningGestational diabetes
A type of diabetes that develops only during pregnancy and usually goes away after birth.
Medical ConditionsH
Hyperemesis
Severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can cause dehydration.
Medical ConditionsI
IUGR
Intrauterine Growth Restriction - when a baby doesn't grow to normal weight during pregnancy.
Medical Definition
A condition in which a fetus's estimated weight is below the 10th percentile for its gestational age.
L
Lightening
When the baby drops lower into the pelvis late in pregnancy, making breathing easier.
Pregnancy TermsLochia
The vaginal discharge you'll experience after giving birth, similar to a heavy period, lasting 4-6 weeks as your uterus heals.
Medical Definition
Postpartum vaginal discharge consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.
M
Morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which can happen at any time of day.
Pregnancy TermsN
Nesting
An urge to clean and organize your home as you prepare for the baby's arrival.
Pregnancy TermsNIPT
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing - A simple blood test that screens for chromosomal abnormalities in your baby using cell-free DNA from your bloodstream.
Medical Definition
Cell-free fetal DNA screening via maternal plasma for common aneuploidies.
P
Pitocin
A synthetic hormone used to induce or strengthen labor contractions.
Labor & DeliveryPushing
The second stage of labor when you actively help move the baby down the birth canal.
Labor & DeliveryPerineum
The area between the vagina and the anus, which can stretch or tear during childbirth.
PostpartumPreeclampsia
A condition in pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure, sometimes with fluid retention and proteinuria.
Medical ConditionsPlacenta previa
When the placenta partially or totally covers the opening of the cervix.
Medical ConditionsQ
Quickening
The first time you feel your baby move, usually between 16 and 20 weeks.
Pregnancy TermsS
Second trimester
Weeks 13 to 26 of pregnancy, often considered the most comfortable period.
Pregnancy TermsStation
A measurement of how far down the baby's head has moved into the pelvis.
Labor & DeliveryT
Third trimester
Week 27 until delivery, the final stage of pregnancy.
Pregnancy TermsTrimester
A period of about three months into which a pregnancy is divided.
Pregnancy TermsTransition
The final, intense phase of active labor right before you start pushing.
Labor & DeliveryV
VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)
A VBAC is a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean delivery. For some women, it can be a safe and appropriate option, depending on factors such as the type of uterine incision from the prior C-section, the reason for the surgery, and how the current pregnancy is progressing.
Labor & Delivery