Antenatal and Intrapartum Norms

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care, important for understanding pregnancy norms and management.

Gestational Age

The length of pregnancy typically measured in weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP) to delivery.

Early Term

Refers to a gestational age of 37 0/7 - 38 6/7 weeks.

Full Term

Refers to a gestational age of 39 0/7 - 40 6/7 weeks.

Nagele's Rule

A method for calculating due date (EDD) based on a woman's last menstrual period.

Gravidity

The total number of pregnancies a woman has had, including live births and miscarriages.

Parity

The number of pregnancies that have resulted in a delivery of a fetus at 20 weeks or more.

GTPAL

An acronym used to summarize a woman’s obstetric history (Gravida, Term, Preterm, Abortions, Living children).

Leopold's Maneuver

A series of abdominal palpations used to determine fetal position, presentation, and to assess fetal heart tones.

Fetal Heart Rate (FHR)

The heart rate of a fetus, typically monitored to assess fetal well-being.

Fundal Height

The distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus, used to assess fetal growth.

Preeclampsia

A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys.

Tocolytics

Medications used to suppress preterm labor by relaxing the uterine muscles.

Nifedipine

A medication commonly used as a tocolytic agent to prevent preterm labor.

Magnesium Sulfate

A medication used for fetal neuroprotection and to prevent seizures in preeclampsia.

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)

Excessive bleeding following childbirth, often requiring medical intervention.

Lochia

The vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.

Breast Engorgement

Swelling and fullness of the breasts due to the accumulation of milk, blood, and other fluids.

Afterpains

Contractions occurring after childbirth as the uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size.

Cervical Ripening

The process of softening and thinning the cervix in preparation for labor.

VBAC

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean; a term referring to labor and delivery following a cesarean section.

Episiotomy

A surgical incision made in the perineum during childbirth to facilitate delivery.

Skin to Skin Contact

The practice of placing a newborn directly onto the mother's chest immediately after delivery.

Colostrum

The first milk produced by the breasts after delivery; rich in antibodies and nutrients.

Hydration Assessment

The evaluation of fluid balance to prevent dehydration during and after childbirth.

Neonatal Resuscitation

Emergency support provided to a newborn who is having difficulty breathing or is not breathing at all.

Apgar Score

A quick test performed on a newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth to assess their physical condition.

Breastfeeding Benefits

Advantages of breastfeeding including nutrition, immunity, bonding, and reduced risk of certain diseases for both mother and baby.

Pyelonephritis

A kidney infection that can occur during pregnancy, often requiring hospitalization and antibiotic treatment.

Placenta Previa

A condition in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, leading to bleeding and complications during delivery.

FHR Monitoring

The process of assessing fetal heart rate to evaluate the baby's status during labor.

Tachycardia

An increased heart rate, which can indicate fetal distress.

Bradycardia

A decreased heart rate, potentially indicating a compromised fetal status.

Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy

Increased caloric intake, protein, vitamins, and minerals necessary to support fetal development.

Fetal Presentation

The part of the fetus that is closest to the cervix at the start of labor.

Cardinal Movements of Labor

The specific movements of the fetus as it travels through the birth canal.