OB Terminology Flashcards
Amnion
Inner fetal membrane which forms the sac containing the fetus or amniotic fluid
Antepartum/antepartal
Time period beginning with conception to the onset of labor
Attitude
Relationship of the fetal parts to one another
Breech presentation
Presenting part being either the fetal buttocks or feet
Cervix
The neck or lowest part of the uterus; interfaces the vagina
Chorion
The outer fetal membrane closest to the intrauterine wall and surrounds the amnion
Conception
Occurs when sperm nucleus enters the nucleus of the oocyte/ovum aka fertilization
Dilation
Expansion of the external os of the uterus from an opening of a few millimeters in size to ten centimeters
Dystocia
Difficult or abnormal labor due to a number of different reasons, both fetal and maternal
Effacement
Thinning and shortening of the cervix that occurs late in pregnancy or during labor
Engagement
Occurs when the greatest diameter of the fetal head passes through the pelvic inlet
Episiotomy
Incision of the perineum to facilitate birth and avoid laceration of the perineum
False labor
Also called Braxton hicks contractions. Irregular contractions with little to no cervical change
Fetus
The child in utero from about the seventh to ninth week until birth
Fetal attitude (or posture)
Relationship of fetal parts to one another