GLOSSARY
A
abortion - Termination of pregnancy before the fetus is viable and capable of
extrauterine existence.
amniocentesis - The withdrawal of amniotic fluid by insertion of a needle through
The abdominal and the uterine wall.
amniotic fluid embolism - Accidental infusion of amniotic fluid into the mother's
bloodstream under pressure from the contracting uterus.
B
bilirubin -- Yellow or orange pigment that is a breakdown product of hemoglobin.
C
caput succedaneum - An abnormal collection of fluid under the scalp or on top of the
skull that may or may not cross the suture lines.
cardinal movements - Movements made by the fetus during the first and second
stage of labor.
cephalhematoma - A collection of blood between a cranial bone and its overlying
periosteum.
D
dilation and curettage (D&C) - Dilation of the cervix and curettage of the uterus.
dystocia of labor - Labor that is difficult which is due to mechanical and functional
factors.
G-1
MD0922
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