The Pregnancy Dictionary
Welcome to the Pregnancy Dictionary!
If you're a new mom or about to become one, you may find some of these common terms and phrases helpful during ovulation, pregnancy, and postpartum. Here's a handy guide to some of the most commonly used terms and phrases in the world of pregnancy and childbirth:
Amniotic fluid: The fluid that surrounds the developing baby in the uterus.
Anovulation: The absence of ovulation during a menstrual cycle.
Basal body temperature (BBT): The body's lowest temperature during rest, which can be used to track ovulation.
Braxton Hicks contractions: Practice contractions that can occur during pregnancy, often in the third trimester. These contractions can help prepare the uterus for labor.
C-section recovery: The recovery period after a cesarean section delivery, which may involve pain management, wound care, and limited activity.
Diastasis recti: A condition in which the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy and do not fully return to their pre-pregnancy position after delivery.
Eclampsia: A rare but serious complication of pre-eclampsia, characterized by seizures or convulsions.
Fertile window: The time during the menstrual cycle when conception is most likely to occur.
Gestational diabetes: High blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy and can affect the health of both the mother and baby.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS): A type of bacteria that can cause infections in newborns, usually screened for during pregnancy.
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): A condition in which the baby does not grow at the expected rate during pregnancy, potentially causing health problems.
Lactation consultant: A healthcare professional who specializes in breastfeeding support and education.
Linea nigra: A dark line that can appear on the abdomen during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Lochia: The discharge of blood, mucus, and tissue from the uterus after childbirth.
Mastitis: An infection of the breast tissue that can occur during breastfeeding.
Menstrual cycle: The monthly cycle of changes that occurs in the female reproductive system, culminating in menstruation or pregnancy.
Mittelschmerz: Pain or discomfort felt on one side of the lower abdomen during ovulation.
Mucus plug: A thick, jelly-like substance that blocks the cervical opening during pregnancy, preventing bacteria from entering the uterus.
Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can form on the ovaries, sometimes affecting ovulation.
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): A rare, potentially dangerous condition in which the ovaries become swollen and painful due to fertility treatment.
Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs): Tests that detect the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) prior to ovulation.
Ovarian reserve: The number and quality of eggs remaining in the ovaries, which decreases with age and can affect fertility.
Pelvic organ prolapse: A condition in which the pelvic organs, such as the bladder or uterus, sag into the vagina after childbirth.
Perineal tears: Tears or lacerations that can occur in the area between the vagina and anus during childbirth.