The separation of the placenta from the wall of the uterus before childbirth, which causes severe bleeding that threatens the life of the mother and the fetus

Some infants are born with a bluish tint to their hands and feet. This condition is called "acrocyanosis" and occurs when a baby reacts to leaving its mother's warm body, and entering the cooler air. It usually disappears when the baby warms up.

A substance secreted by the fetus and found in the amniotic fluid and the mother's blood. A low level of AFP can be an indicator of Down Syndrome.

A procedure that involves taking a sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby by inserting a needle into the amniotic sac through the mother’s abdomen. This tests for fetal abnormalities, lung maturity, enzyme defects and other chemicals.

Water-like fluid contained in the membranous sac ("bag of waters") surrounding the baby. It serves to help support the baby, permit movement, prevent heat loss, and absorb shocks.

Drugs that relieve pain without causing unconsciousness.

A decrease in red blood cells, which carry oxygen in the blood.

Partial or complete loss of pain, with or without loss of consciousness.

The period of pregnancy from conception to delivery.

The front of the body.

A medication that kills or reduces the amount of bacteria.

Proteins produced by the body that form the basis for immunity. Antibodies are produced in response to a specific foreign substance, called an antigen.

A substance that stimulates the production of an antibody, such as proteins on the surface of viruses, bacteria or even certain types of cells in the body.

A system for evaluating the health of a newborn baby; this test is administered to a baby one minute after birth, and then again at 5 minutes after birth. Apgar tests your baby for breathing, heart rate, skin color, muscle tone and reflexes. The results are rated on a scale of 0-10.

When a fetus stops descending into the vagina.

The addition of pitocin to strengthen or increase the number of contractions.

A substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.

A measurement of the work of the heart and the pressure of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels.

The specific class of blood based on the presence or absence of antigens on the red blood cells. The main groups are types A, B, AB, and O.

A single dose of medication given at one time.

Irregular, intermittent contractions of the uterus that DO NOT cause dilation and effacement of the cervix.

A fetal position where the buttocks or feet are closest to the cervical canal.