conception
the joining of the sperm and the egg to form an embryo, and the beginning of pregnancy.
fertility
production of babies.
embryo
The fertilized egg resulting from conception, and developing into a fetus.
congenital anomaly
a change from normal due to genetic damage or changes in gene expression: a birth defect.
birth defect
congenital anomaly.
fetus
an unborn human infant of more than eight weeks age.
miscarriage
spontaneous abortion of the fetus, often caused by a congenital anomaly, and occurring less than 20 weeks into the pregnancy.
teratogen
an agent that damages genetic material or otherwise causes a congenital anomaly.
infertility
lack of production of babies
amenorrhea
a lack of regular menstrual cycles.
oligomenorrhea
literally, few, or irregular, menstrual cycles.
ovulation
the release of eggs from the ovaries.
ovaries
the source of eggs in the female reproductive system.
hypogonadism
delayed or reduced development of sexual organs and secondary sex characteristics.
trimester
a third of a pregnancy.
Spina bifida
a failure of the spinal column to form properly, leading to difficulties in gait or mental retardation.
placenta
organ that transfers nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, removes wastes, and produces hormones.
hyperplasia
growth by an increase in the number of cells.
hypertrophy
growth by an increase in the size of cells.
edema
abnormal accumulation of extracellular fluid.
pre-eclampsia
a condition that potentially can lead up to eclampsia.
anabolism
metabolism of synthesis.
catabolism
metabolism of breakdown
Proteinuria
protein in the urine. An abnormal event.
eclampsia
a condition of later pregnancy involving high blood pressure that may lead to convulsions, kidney damage, stillbirth, and even death.
gestational diabetes
diabetes beginning in, and usually ending after, pregnancy.
ketone bodies
products of fat metabolism harmful to the fetus in high concentrations.
pathogens
bacteria that cause disease.
anovulation
the state of not ovulating, that is, not releasing eggs.
letdown
the reflex that releases milk from the milk gland into the milk duct.
prolactin
hormone that stimulates milk production.
Oxytocin
hormone that stimulates letdown.
Contraindications
a medical reason against some action.