Amniotic Sac: Fluid-filled sac in a woman’s uterus. The fetus develops in this sac.
Amniotomy: Artificial rupture (bursting) of the amniotic sac.
Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagin*.
Cesarean Birth: Birth of a fetus from the uterus through an incision made in the woman’s abdomen.
Fetus: The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization.
Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that is diagnosed after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus.
Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor with special training and education in women’s health.
Oxytocin: A hormone made in the body that can cause contractions of the uterus and release of milk from the breast.
Placenta: An organ that provides nutrients to and takes waste away from the fetus.
Preeclampsia: A disorder that can occur during pregnancy or after childbirth in which there is high blood pressure and other signs of organ injury. These signs include an abnormal amount of protein in the urine, a low number of platelets, abnormal kidney or liver function, pain over the upper abdomen, fluid in the lungs, or a severe headache or changes in vision.
Prostaglandins: Chemicals that are made by the body that have many effects, including causing the muscles of the uterus to contract, usually causing cramps.
Uterus: A muscular organ in the female pelvis. During pregnancy, this organ holds and nourishes the fetus.
