PREGNANCY
POP QUIZ
POP QUIZ
This is the average length of a full-term pregnancy.
WHAT IS 40 WEEKS?
Pregnancy is typically measured from the first day of your last menstrual period to 40 weeks or (280 days).
This stage of labor includes the actual birth of the baby.
WHAT IS THE SECOND STAGE?
The second stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the baby’s birth.
This term usually refers to the first 6 weeks following childbirth but, can actually last close to 2 years.
WHAT IS THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD?
The postpartum period (the 4th trimester) is the stage when the body recovers and adjusts after delivery.
This is the recommended amount of time to exclusively breastfeed.
WHAT IS 6 MONTHS?
Global Health organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.
The number of weeks your elders might say you should “stay in the house”, "keep your head & feet covered", and "eat warm foods" after giving birth.
WHAT IS 6 WEEKS (40 DAYS)?
Many traditions promote rest and minimal activity during this recovery time.
This supplement is recommended during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects.
WHAT IS FOLIC ACID?
Folic acid supports healthy brain and spine development in the baby.
This pain relief method is injected into the spinal space during labor.
WHAT IS AN EPIDURAL?
An epidural numbs the lower body to help manage labor pain.
Mood swings, crying spells, and anxiety in the first 2 weeks postpartum is commonly called this.
WHAT ARE THE BABY BLUES?
The "Baby blues" is common and usually resolves on its own, unlike postpartum depression.
TRUE or FALSE: You must pump to keep your milk supply up.
WHAT IS FALSE?
Milk supply can be maintained with direct nursing if feeding is frequent and effective.
This item is often wrapped around a new parent’s belly in postpartum traditions.
WHAT IS A BELLY BINDER/WRAP (FAJA)?
Belly binding is used to support the abdomen and aid healing after birth.
This pregnancy-related condition causes high blood pressure and can be dangerous if untreated.
WHAT IS PREECLAMPSIA?
Preeclampsia can affect organ function and may lead to serious complications for both parent and baby.
This is the most common position for babies to be in at the time of delivery.
WHAT IS HEAD-DOWN (CEPHALIC)?
Most babies are positioned head-first, which is ideal for a safer vaginal birth.
This organ continues to be delivered after the baby is born, and is often honored in cultural traditions.
WHAT IS THE PLACENTA?
The placenta nourished the baby in the womb and is sometimes used in rituals or medicine.
This golden-colored early milk is rich in antibodies and nutrients.
WHAT IS COLOSTRUM?
Colostrum is the first milk, packed with immune protection for newborns.
This food is often brought by aunties and grannies to “build your blood” after birth.
WHAT IS LIVER or RED BEANS?
These foods are iron-rich and are thought to help rebuild strength post-birth.
Craving ice, clay, or dirt during pregnancy may be a sign of this condition.
WHAT IS IRON DEFICIENCY (ANEMIA)?
These unusual cravings are linked to low iron levels, which are common in pregnancy.
This is the term for the natural softening and thinning of the cervix before or during labor.
WHAT IS EFFACEMENT?
Effacement helps prepare the cervix for dilation and delivery.
This term refers to a part of the body’s natural healing process that includes vaginal bleeding after birth.
WHAT IS LOCHIA?
Lochia is a mix of blood and tissue that clears out the uterus post-birth.
This is the hormone responsible for milk let-down or release.
WHAT IS OXYTOCIN?
Oxytocin helps release milk from the breast during nursing or pumping.
This warm, "spicy" home remedy is often used for colds, healing, or "clearing out the womb."
WHAT IS GINGER TEA?
Ginger is believed to warm the body and support internal healing.
This hormone, known as “the bonding hormone,” increases significantly during labor and birth.
WHAT IS OXYTOCIN?
Oxytocin helps the uterus contract and strengthens emotional bonding between parent and baby.
TRUE or FALSE: Once your water breaks, you immediately go into active labor.
WHAT IS FALSE?
Labor doesn’t always start right away after your water breaks—it can take hours.
This supportive practice, rooted in Black, Indigenous, and global traditions, prioritizes warmth, rest, and nourishment after birth.
WHAT IS THE CONFINEMENT/REST PERIOD?
Many cultures honor a 40-day healing/recovery period to support the birthing parent's recovery and bonding.
This term describes when a baby feeds more frequently to help the body increase its milk supply.
WHAT IS CLUSTER FEEDING?
Cluster feeding is normal and helps regulate and boost milk production.
TRUE or FALSE: According to tradition, cold drinks and cool showers are a big NO-NO in the postpartum period.
WHAT IS TRUE?
Many cultures believe that cold exposure can disrupt healing and bring on future health issues.