Pregnancy

• Fertilization - Zygote:

  • Fertilization: The process by which sperm and egg combine to form a zygote.

  • Zygote: The single cell formed by the union of a sperm cell and an egg cell.

• Gestation:

  • The period during which an embryo develops within the uterus, leading to the birth of a baby.

• Placenta:

  • An organ that develops during pregnancy, providing a connection between the mother and the developing fetus, facilitating nutrient and waste exchange.

• Amniotic Sac and Amniotic Fluid:

  • Amniotic Sac: A membranous sac that surrounds and protects the fetus.

  • Amniotic Fluid: The fluid within the amniotic sac, providing a cushion for the fetus and facilitating movement.

• Umbilical Cord:

  • A flexible cord connecting the fetus to the placenta, carrying nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and removing waste products.

• 3 x Trimesters:

  • The three equal periods of approximately three months each that make up the duration of human pregnancy.

    • First Trimester: Weeks 1-12.

    • Second Trimester: Weeks 13-26.

    • Third Trimester: Weeks 27-40.

• Vernix:

  • A protective, waxy coating on a newborn's skin, present at birth.

• Natural/Vaginal Childbirth:

  • The process of giving birth through the vagina, without the use of surgical intervention.

• Episiotomy:

  • A surgical incision made in the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) during childbirth to widen the vaginal opening.

• Epidural:

  • An anesthesia method that involves injecting pain-relieving medication into the epidural space of the spine to numb the lower part of the body, commonly used during childbirth.

• Cesarean Section:

  • A surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus, often done when vaginal delivery is deemed risky or not possible