Maternity Care Glossary

The first form of breast milk produced during pregnancy and immediately after birth, rich in antibodies and nutrients.

Fetal presentation where an extremity presents alongside the main presenting part.

Obstetric emergency where the umbilical cord descends through the cervix ahead of or alongside the fetus, potentially co...

Cardiotocography; electronic monitoring system tracking fetal heart rate and maternal uterine contractions.

Surgical procedure involving cervical dilation and endometrial scraping, often performed after pregnancy loss.

A handheld ultrasonic device used to detect and amplify fetal heart sounds during routine prenatal examinations.

Abnormal or difficult labor characterized by slow progress or complications during delivery.

The thinning and shortening of the cervix during labor, measured as a percentage from 0% (thick) to 100% (paper-thin).

Birth condition where the baby is delivered with the amniotic sac intact around the head or entire body.

The descent of the fetal presenting part (usually the head) into the pelvic inlet, typically occurring in the final week...

A surgical incision made in the perineum during childbirth to enlarge the vaginal opening.

A rare congenital condition where the urethral opening is located on the upper side of the penis or above the clitoris.

Fetal malpresentation where the face is the presenting part with complete head extension.

A protein marker tested in cervicovaginal secretions to assess preterm birth risk.

Soft spots on an infant's skull where bone formation is incomplete, allowing for brain growth and passage through the bi...

The distance from the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterus, measured to assess fetal growth.

Glucose intolerance that develops or is first diagnosed during pregnancy.

A condition where a woman has delivered five or more viable pregnancies, associated with increased obstetric risks.

The number of times a woman has been pregnant, regardless of pregnancy outcome.

The total number of pregnancies a woman has experienced, regardless of outcome.

A severe pregnancy complication characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.

Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss.

Fetal growth below the 10th percentile for gestational age due to pathologic factors.

The process by which the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size and condition after childbirth.