Maternal and Newborn Health: Spontaneous Abortion and Related Conditions

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to spontaneous abortion, cervical insufficiency, and intrauterine fetal demise, to help reinforce understanding of the material for the upcoming exam.

Spontaneous Abortion

A pregnancy that ends before 20 weeks gestation, often referred to as a miscarriage.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Genetic defects that can lead to fetal development issues and are a primary risk factor for miscarriage.

Cervical Insufficiency

Painless cervical dilation or shortening before term, which can result in second-trimester miscarriages or preterm birth.

Uterine Stimulants

Medications such as misoprostol or oxytocin used to promote the expulsion of retained nonviable pregnancy tissue.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

A surgical procedure used to remove tissue from the uterus, often performed after a miscarriage if there is retained tissue.

Intrauterine Fetal Demise (IUFD)

Fetal death occurring at 20 weeks gestation or later due to various maternal, fetal, or placental factors.

Rh Immune Globulin (RhoGAM)

A medication administered to Rh-negative mothers after delivery to prevent sensitization from fetal-maternal blood mixture.

Pelvic Rest

A recommendation for patients post-miscarriage to avoid penetration, such as tampons or intercourse, until bleeding stops.

β-hCG Levels

Hormonal levels monitored to assess the viability of a pregnancy; decreasing levels may suggest a nonviable pregnancy.

Empathy in Care

The ability to understand and share the feelings of a client, especially important in cases of miscarriage or fetal loss.