Understanding the Language of Pregnancy

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

When you become pregnant, you will soon learn that pregnancy has a vocabulary all its own. When you visit your doctor or midwife, you will hear new words and may be nervous to ask. Learning some of the commonly used terms can help you feel more confident about your pregnancy and in communicating with your health care provider.

Alpha Fetoprotein Test is a blood test done early in the second trimester to detect the level of alpha fetoprotein in the pregnant woman's blood. High levels can indicate a brain or spinal cord defect. Low levels can indicate an increased risk for Down's Syndrome. This is a screening test, rather than a diagnostic test. A positive result only means further testing is needed. In most cases, the baby turns out to be completely healthy.

Amniocentesis is a test that involves inserting a long needle into the abdomen and drawing out some of the amniotic fluid. Cells found in the amniotic fluid are studied to detect a wide range of genetic and chromosomal disorders. In some cases, this test is done after a positive result on the Alpha Fetoprotein test. The amniocentesis carries some risk of miscarriage.

Amniotic Fluid is the fluid that surrounds the baby in the uterus. The amniotic sac holds the fluid in place and helps cushion and protect the baby. Fluid levels that are too high or two low can be dangerous for the baby.

Chloasma is also known as the mask of pregnancy. This is a darkening of the pigment on the face during pregnancy. The skin generally returns to its original color after the baby is born.

Chorionic Villus Sampling is a test that is performed earlier than an amniocentesis to detect chromosomal and genetic disorders. This test is similar to the amnio, but can be performed earlier in the pregnancy. Like the amniocentesis, this test carries certain risks including miscarriage.

Ectopic Pregnancy is a pregnancy that implants anywhere other than the uterus. This is generally in the fallopian tube, but can be in the abdominal cavity as well.

Embryo is your baby until the eighth week of pregnancy.

Fetus is the baby from the ninth week and throughout the rest of the pregnancy.

Fundus is the top of the uterus. This measurement is done in centimeters and is equal to the pregnancy in weeks. For example, if you are twenty six weeks, your fundus should measure twenty six centimeters.

Gestational Diabetes is diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. The glucose tolerance test is done to screen for this condition. In most cases, the condition resolves after the pregnancy has ended.

Lamaze classes are also called prepared child birth classes. These are often given in hospitals to prepare pregnant women for birth. Patterned breathing techniques are used in combination with focusing to help cope with pain in labor.

Lightening is when the fetus drops further into the pelvis. This generally happens a few days to a few weeks prior to the birth. Most women find breathing easier after this has occurred.

Neural Tube Defects are birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. Spina bifida is an example of a neural tube defect. Studies have shown that taking folic acid prior to becoming pregnant can help reduce the risk of these defects.

Placenta is the organ that grows inside the uterus to help support the pregnancy. The placenta is responsible for bringing nutrients to the baby and taking away waste.

Pre-eclampsia is a potentially serious medical complication in pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure, protein in the urine and fluid retention.

Quickening is the baby's first movements. Many women describe the sensation as feeling like bubbles or butterflies in the abdomen.

Round Ligament Pain is caused by the stretching of the ligaments around the uterus. This pain can feel like menstrual cramps and is common in early pregnancy.

Trimester is one of the three time periods of pregnancy. The nine months of pregnancy are divided into three trimesters, the first, second and third.

Ultrasound is a screening test that allows the baby to be seen on a television screen. The ultrasound machine uses sound waves to make the picture of the fetus. The test is used for several reasons, including: checking the health of the baby, verifying the due date, determining the position of the baby, checking the placenta and checking the level of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

Related Articles:

Understanding the Language of Birth

Discomforts of the First Trimester

Testing in Pregnancy

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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