A metabolic waste byproduct of the body. Carbon dioxide collects in the tissues, is cleared by the blood (via the veins) and removed from the body via the lungs when we exhale air.

An organic byproduct of combustion. A tasteless, odorless gas that competes with oxygen binding sites on the hemoglobin molecule. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include headache and nausea. Advanced exposure results in coma, cardiovascular collapse and death.

Emptying the bladder by insertion of a small pliable tube through the urethra.

When the head of the fetus is too large to fit through the mother's pelvis.

Inflammation of the cervix.

The neck shaped opening of the uterus which dilates and thins out during labor to allow the baby's head to descend into the vagina (birth canal).

An operation performed to remove a baby by cutting into the uterus, usually through the abdominal wall.

A test used to detect birth defects in which a small amount of placental tissue is removed from the uterus.

Genetic material that determines our physical characteristics. Each of us has 46 chromosomes that pass the genetic code from cell to cell.

Removal of the foreskin from the penis.

Cytomegalovirus, a virus that can cause birth defects in the fetus if acquired by the mother during pregnancy.

The name given to long, unexplained bouts of crying in an infant -- usually beginning between the second and third weeks of life and disappearing by about the 12th week. About 20 percent of babies are colicky.

The protein-rich fluid that precedes the production of true milk. A substance that is secreted from a mother’s breasts during the first 2-4 days after delivery. It has more protein and minerals, and less fat and carbohydrates than true breast milk. Colostrum is easily digested by the infant and has a mild laxative effect to promote the passage of meconium. It is also high in calories and contains maternal antibodies.

Tightening and shortening of the uterine muscles during labor. This causes effacement and dilation of the cervix by contributing to the downward descent of the baby.

A test of the fetus's response to contractions.

A seizure.

A phenomenon in which men show the symptoms of pregnancy.

When the baby’s head is seen at the opening of the mother’s vagina.

A synthetic estrogen once used to prevent miscarriages. It is no longer used because it caused structural abnormalities in the babies of the mothers who took the drug.

Gradual opening of the cervix to permit passage of the baby. Dilation is measured in centimeters (1 to 10cm).

A medication used to treat hypertension that reduces the body's fluid volume.

A non-invasive sound device used to listen to the fetal heartbeat.

A person hired as a mother’s helper in labor and postpartum.

A genetic abnormality caused by an extra chromosome 21, which causes mental and physical handicaps.