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Amniotic Fluid: Fluid that surrounds, protects, and maintains the temperature of the fetus. Normal amount is usually between 500 to 1500 ml.
Braxton Hicks: This is known as “false labour,” light irregular contractions that can occur throughout the pregnancy, but occur more often in the third trimester. Breech: When the position of the fetus is feet or buttocks first in contact with the cervix Brown fat: This tissue surrounds the fetus’ kidneys, sternum, and back of the neck. This helps regulate the baby’s temperature after birth. Constipation: The inability or difficulty in having a bowel movement. The movement of the bowels slows due to the pressure from the growing fetus. Colostrum: This is the first substance that is extracted from the breast. This thin, yellow fluid contains many nutrients and antibodies. Doppler: Device that is used to hear the fetal heartbeat Edema: The excess fluid that builds up in tissue compartments of the body. The lower legs and feet are common sites of edema for pregnant women. Estrogen:Hormone that regulates the production of progesterone, also is responsible for fetal development. Fallopian tubes: Tubes that connect the ovary to the uterus on either side. Once an egg is fertilized, it uses this pathway to travel to the uterus. Fetus: This is want the developing baby is called after the third month of pregnancy until birth. Heartburn: Is an uncomfortable burning sensation of the upper chest and throat. Try eating smaller meals that are more frequent and not laying down following a meal. Hemorroids: These enlarged veins occur inside or outside of the rectum. Bleeding may occur when having a bowel movement. Increase fluid and fibre intake throughout your pregnancy for more comfortable bowel movements. Lanugo: Fine hair that covers the arms, back and shoulders Meconium: This green, sticky substance develops in the fetus’ intestines. It will be the first bowel movement that the newborn baby will pass. Morning sickness: This refers to the nausea and vomiting that can occur during the first trimester of pregnancy. Although, referred to as morning sickness, it can occur at anytime during the day. Progesterone: Hormone of the body that during pregnancy protects the embryo to implant in the uterus and helps maintain the growth of the placenta. It also prepares the mammary glands and the stimulation of milk. Retinal Blood Vessels: These are very immature in the growing fetus and if born premature they are very sensitive to and can be damaged by a high concentration of oxygen. Surfactant: A protein within the tissues of the lung, that aid in elasticity. Stretch marks: Occur as a result of the stretching of the skin and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Trimester: Term used to categorize the pregnancy into three parts. Trimester, meaning three, divides the pregnancy into three of three months each. Uterus: Where the fertilized egg implants into after travelling down the fallopian tubes. It will then serve as the anchor for the placenta. Varicose veins: When the veins, usually of the legs, become twisted and swollen due to lack of sufficient blood flow. Common in pregnancy, especially if it runs in the family. Vernix: White substance that covers and lubricates the skin of the fetus. Zygote: A fertilized egg. |
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