Referring to the number of children previously borne by a woman. For example, if a woman has been pregnant three times, but only delivered two children successfully, she would be referred to as being G3/P2 – or gravida three/para two.

The bony ring that joins the spine and legs. The infant must pass through the central opening to be born vaginally.

The area between the vagina and the rectum.

The coloring of the tissues.

A synthetic oxytocin.

The vascular structure developed in pregnancy through which oxygen, nutrients, and waste products pass between mother and baby. After delivery, the placenta is sometimes referred to as the "afterbirth."

A somewhat risky condition in which the placenta develops at the lower section of the uterus (close to or covering the cervix); varies in severity, from no effect on a pregnancy to vaginal bleeding and danger to the mother and the baby.

Excessive amount of amniotic fluid.

The time from delivery until 6 weeks after birth.

An illness of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure, swelling or edema, and proteinuria.

Existing or occurring during pregnancy.

The position of the baby inside the uterus.

The part of the baby that is downward against the cervix.

A hormone produced by the corpus luteum and placenta that prepares the uterus for pregnancy, maintains the pregnancy, and promotes the development of the breast.

In approximately one in 300 births, the umbilical cord slips out through the cervix ahead of the baby, which is dangerous because uterine contractions block blood flow to the baby. Unless the cervix is already dilated and birth is imminent, cesarean delivery is the usual solution.

A hormone-like substance.

The presence of protein in the urine.

A short tube located at the end of the large intestine, which connects the intestine to the anus.

Respiratory difficulties in newborns, especially common in premature babies, and often associated with immature or fluid filled lungs.

A substance found on the blood cells of RH-positive individuals.

A substance that prevents antibodies against RH factor from forming.

Word used to describe the softened condition of the cervix when ready for the onset of labor.

Pain or discomfort in mom’s lower abdomen caused by stretching of the ligaments on either side of the uterus. This isn’t harmful to baby but may be very uncomfortable for mom.