amniocentesis
A test in which a sample of amniotic fluid is removed from a woman's uterus to examine the cells cast off by the fetus for birth defects.
amniotic fluid
The fluid inside the amniotic sac that enables the fetus to move easily, serves as a cushion and thermostat, and aids in delivery.
Apgar scale
Tests used to measure the overall physical condition of a newborn.
birth defect
A condition that exists from birth and limits the ability of a person's body or mind.
bonding
The close feelings of attachment between a newborn and his or her parents.
breech birth
Birth in which the baby is positioned buttocks first for birth.
certified nurse-midwife
(CNM) A registered nurse who is trained to provide health care for normal pregnancies and births.
cervix
The opening to the uterus.
cesarean delivery
A surgical method of delivering a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen.
conception
The moment of becoming pregnant when one sperm and one egg unite.
embryo
The first two months of development of the zygote.
fetal alcohol syndrome
(FAS) A pattern of physical and mental birth defects in children born of alcoholic mothers.
fetus
The name for a growing baby during the last seven months of pregnancy.
labor
The contractions of the uterus during the birth process.
lactation
The production of milk in the breasts.
Lamaze method
A birthing technique in which the mother is taught to focus on breathing techniques to relax her muscles.
Leboyer method
A birthing technique that focuses on making the baby's transition into the outside world more gradual by providing a comforting environment similar to the internal environment.
obstetrician-gynecologist
A specialist who provides medical and surgical care to women. The obstetrician provides mainly pregnancy care.
placenta
Organ in which the pregnant woman's blood vessels meet with the baby's capillaries to allow the transfer of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and the removal of waste products from the fetus.
sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS) The unexplained death of a healthy baby that stops breathing and dies in its sleep.
ultrasound
A technology that uses sound waves bouncing off the fetus to produce an image of the fetus inside the womb.
umbilical cord
A shaft of blood vessels that carries oxygen, nutrients, and antibodies to the growing fetus while eliminating waste products.
zygote
The cell that is formed when a sperm and egg unite.