Pregnancy and Childbirth

B

Blastocyst

A blastocyst is an early stage of embryonic development that occurs about 5-6 days after fertilization, consisting of an outer layer of cells that will become the placenta and an inner cell mass that will develop into the fetus. This critical stage marks the point when the embryo is ready to implant into the uterine wall, which is essential for pregnancy to continue.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the process by which a mother feeds her infant or young child with milk produced by her mammary glands. This natural method of infant feeding provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and other components crucial for a baby's growth and development. Breastfeeding typically begins soon after childbirth and can continue for several months or years, depending on cultural practices and individual preferences.

C

Contraception

Contraception, also known as birth control, refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. These methods work by preventing the fertilization of an egg by sperm or by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Contraception allows people to have sexual intercourse with a reduced risk of unintended pregnancy.

D

Doula

A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike midwives or doctors, doulas do not perform medical tasks but focus on offering continuous support and advocacy for the birthing person and their partner. Doulas aim to enhance the birthing experience and promote a positive outcome for all involved.

E

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening condition where a fertilized egg implants and begins to develop outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy cannot proceed normally and requires immediate medical attention. Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 1-2% of all pregnancies and can cause severe complications if left untreated.

M

Miscarriage

A miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, is the unintended loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. It's a common occurrence, affecting about 10-20% of known pregnancies. Miscarriages can happen for various reasons, often due to chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus that make it non-viable.

P

Perinatal Depression

Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that can affect individuals during pregnancy and up to one year after childbirth. It encompasses both antenatal depression (occurring during pregnancy) and postpartum depression (occurring after childbirth). This condition is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness that can interfere with daily life and the ability to care for oneself or the baby.

Placenta

The placenta is a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy, connecting the developing fetus to the uterine wall. This remarkable structure acts as a lifeline between mother and baby, performing crucial functions for fetal growth and development. The placenta allows for the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the maternal and fetal blood supplies, without the two blood systems actually mixing.

Postpartum Period

The postpartum period, also known as the puerperium, refers to the time immediately following childbirth. It typically lasts about six to eight weeks, during which the mother's body returns to its non-pregnant state. This period involves significant physical and emotional changes as the body heals and adjusts to new hormonal levels.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the term used to describe the period in which a fetus develops inside a woman's uterus. It usually lasts about 40 weeks, or just over 9 months, as measured from the last menstrual period to delivery. During this time, the fertilized egg develops into an embryo and then a fetus.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care refers to the healthcare services and support provided to pregnant individuals throughout their pregnancy. It involves regular check-ups, screenings, and guidance from healthcare professionals to monitor the health of both the pregnant person and the developing fetus. The goal of prenatal care is to prevent potential health problems, identify and address any issues that arise during pregnancy, and promote a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.