Pregnancy Glossary

Definitions and explanations for terms related to pregnancy.

Alpha-Fetoprotein Screening

An Alpha-Fetoprotein Screening is a blood test which is designed to measure alpha-fetoprotein levels in your blood. This is important as abnormal levesl may indicate spinal cord or brain defects, twins or an incorrect due date. This may also indeicate increased down syndrome chances.

Alveoli Cells

The Alveoli cells are the glands located in female breasts which produce milk.

Amniotic Fluid

Amniotic Fluid is the fluid or liquid which surrounds a fetus while in the womb. It is generally clear and slighly yellowish in color. This fluid resides inside the amniotic sac.

Areola

The Areola is the darkened skin of the nipple which surrounds the tit.

Breast Shell

A breast shell is a plastic cover which fits directly on the breast. This is used to correct flat and/or inverted nipples. Other terms include milk cup or breast shield.

Cervix

The Cervix is the narrow/lower part of the womb (womb). This forms the canal opening into the vagina, which leads to the vulva, or opening of the vagina.

C-section (cesarean)

A C-section or cesarean procedure is when a delivery happens through the abdomen instead of the vaginal canal.

Colostrum

Colostrum is a yellow, thick fluid produced and secreted from the nipples during pregnancy. This is often referred to as “first milk” as it is often the first secretion from the breasts post birth. It is full of nutrients and other important nutrients for new babies.

Connective Tissue

Body tissue which connects other tissues and binds various types together. This is use in supporting growing breasts.

Constipation

Constipation is when an individual has difficulty passing stools.

Ductules

Ductules are the small milk ducts in the breasts that connect the mammary or lactiferous ducts.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An Ectopic Pregnancy is a pregnancy that is outside the uterus. This occurs when fertilized eggs settle and grow outside the inner lining. This happens most commonly in the fallopian tube, although it can happen in the abdominal cavity, cervix and ovary.

Embryo

This is the point of the pregnancy that the baby is growing at a fast pace. This is prior to the main features taking form.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition were the tissue normally lining the uterus grows in another portion of the body. Blood shed monthly can occue from this misplaced tissue. This can produce scar tissue and symptoms such as painful menstrual cramps.

Engorgement

Engorgement is a condition where breasts fill with to much milk. Breasts that are engorged feel swollen, hard and can be painful to women. This can cause blocked milk ducts.

Epidural

Epidural’s are when during labor, a needle is inserted into the space at the end of the spine. The lets women have more strength and energy during the later stages of the birthing process. This can help during the final push of the birth canal.

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are what occur when the skin stretches to quickly.  A good way to reduce this is to make sure you are taking a form of anti inflammatory (such as maqui berries).