Words to Know
Define "prenatal."
Prenatal refers to the time before birth, during or relating to pregnancy.
What is "folate?"
Folate is folic acid, and when taken in the beginning of pregnancy, helps protect the baby's brain and spinal cord.
When should a woman begin prenatal care?
A woman should begin prenatal care as soon as she thinks she might be pregnant. Preconception care, both people, is helpful if she might become pregnant.
During pregnancy, what foods should a woman limit or avoid?
Foods that are high in sugar or fats that could create a problem such as gestational diabetes.
What is a CNM or midwife?
A Certified Nurse Midwife is a registered nurse with advanced training in pregnancy and delivery, and gynecological care of women.
Define "preconception."
Preconception refers to the time before conception.
What is a "premie?"
A premie is a nickname for a baby born before 37 weeks of gestation.
What weeks are included in the first trimester?
The first trimester is the first 13 weeks from conception.
During pregnancy, what foods should a woman eat more of?
A pregnant woman should eat a balanced diet that includes high protein, fruits and vegetables, and food pyramid suggestions.
OB refers to medical care during pregnancy, delivery, and post-partum, and GYN refers to total reproductive medical care for all other issues.
Define "gestation."
Gestation refers to the process or period of time that a fetus is developing inside the uterus between conception and birth.
What is an "ovum?"
An ovum is an egg in the mother's body.
What weeks are included in the second trimester?
The second trimester is weeks 14--27.
What is Hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar, and may cause a woman to experience nausea, fainting, or even more serious problems.
What is a CBC?
CBC, Complete Blood Count, determines number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets to diagnose and monitor health conditions.
Define "trimester."
Trimester is a period of *three months* and is the division of the duration and developmental stages of pregnancy.
What is "conception?"
Conception is when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell or ovum, creating a single-cell zygote, and is the beginning of the pregnancy.
What weeks are included in the third trimester?
The third trimester occurs from 28 weeks to delivery.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes refers to high blood sugar, when the body is not producing or using insulin well. Weight, diet, and family history may be factors.
What part does exercise play in the health of a pregnant mother?
Exercise reduces risk of complications, helps with mood, reduces back aches, and improves child birth and recovery.
Define "preterm."
Preterm refers to a baby that is born early, or before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
What is a "miscarriage?"
A miscarriage is the loss of the pregnancy due to the death of the fetus. This is sometimes called "spontaneous abortion."
When does a woman usually learn she is pregnant?
A woman usually learns she is pregnant at about 4-6 weeks after conception.
What should be eliminated during pregnancy?
Alcohol, and any drugs and medications that are not prescribed or approved by the medical team.
What is the BEST preparation for a healthy pregnancy, delivery, and recovery?
The best preparation is in knowing more and planning for the changes.