Copy of `BabyCentre - Glossary of childcare`
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BabyCentre - Glossary of childcare
Category: Health and Medicine > Pregnancy, babies
Date & country: 13/10/2007, UK Words: 475
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afterbirthThe placenta is commonly called the afterbirth once it has been delivered.
alpha-fetoproteinThis is a protein, produced by the fetus's liver, which can be detected in the mother's blood most accurately between the 16th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. High levels of AFP may be associated with a neural-tube birth defect called spina bifida; low levels may be associated with Down's syndrome.
amnioAn amniocentesis is a diagnostic test used to determine possible genetic abnormalities, usually performed between Week 15 and Week 18 of pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the amniotic sac by inserting a hollow needle through the abdominal wall.
amniocentesisAn amniocentesis is a diagnostic test used to determine possible genetic abnormalities, usually performed between Week 15 and Week 18 of pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the amniotic sac by inserting a hollow needle through the abdominal wall.
amniotic fluidThe clear straw-coloured liquid in the amniotic sac in which the fetus grows. It cushions the baby against pressure and knocks, allows the baby to move around and grow without restriction, helps the lungs develop, keeps the baby at a constant temperature, and provides a barrier against infection.
amniotic sacThe sac or 'bag of waters' filled with amniotic fluid in which the developing baby grows. The membranes which make up the sac may occasionally rupture naturally as labour begins, but usually remain intact until the end of the first stage of labour. The membranes may also be broken by a midwife or doctor to speed up labour.
anencephalyA rare condition in which the baby's brain does not develop properly while in the womb, resulting in little or no brain and a malformed skull.
antenatal careMedical care for a pregnant woman and her developing baby for the duration of the pregnancy.
antenatal classesA method of emotional and physical preparation to reduce pain in childbirth.
antenatal testsMedical tests conducted during pregnancy to determine any genetic disorders in the fetus or to check the well-being of the woman.
anterior positionThe baby's spine faces the front of the pelvis during pregnancy and/or labour.
antibioticsDrugs used to control bacteria. Antibiotics cannot treat a viral infection.
antioxidantvitamin or mineral which helps to mop up harmful molecules called free radicals in the body, so helping to fight infections and other conditions, including cancer
Apgar scoreThe APGAR test is routinely used one minute and five minutes (and sometimes ten minutes) after birth to assess a newborn baby's health. It assesses five basic indicators of health: activity level, pulse, grimace (response to stimulation), appearance and respiration. The baby is given a score of 0,1 or 2 on each indicator and the scores are added up to give an overall 'Apgar score' out of a possible ten.
APGAR testThe APGAR test is routinely used one minute and five minutes (and sometimes ten minutes) after birth to assess a newborn baby's health. It assesses five basic indicators of health: activity level, pulse, grimace (response to stimulation), appearance and respiration. The baby is given a score of 0,1 or 2 on each indicator and the scores are added up to give an overall 'Apgar score' out of a possible ten.
areolaThe areola is the dark area on the breast surrounding the nipple, which may spread or darken further during pregnancy.
assisted conception treatmentAny procedure which involves medical intervention to aid conception.
asthmaAsthma is a chronic lung and breathing disorder, ranging from mild wheeziness to serious constriction of the bronchial tubes. It is the most common respiratory disorder during pregnancy.
atopicA tendency to allergies which often runs in families
baby bluesThe 'baby blues' is a mild depression which many women experience three or four days after giving birth. Weepiness, mood swings, anxiety and/or unhappiness can result from the dramatic drop in hormones after birth and from a feeling of anticlimax after the anticipation and excitement of having a baby. See also postnatal depression.
baby teethA child's first set of teeth. A child will have around 20 by the age of three.
bacteriaOrganisms that may cause infection, usually treated by antibiotics. Not all bacteria are harmful: beneficial bacteria, for example in the gut, can aid digestion.
bag of watersThe sac or 'bag of waters' filled with amniotic fluid in which the developing baby grows. The membranes which make up the sac may occasionally rupture naturally as labour begins, but usually remain intact until the end of the first stage of labour. The membranes may also be broken by a midwife or doctor to speed up labour.
bilirubinBilirubin is a by-product of the normal breakdown of old red blood cells. Some newborn babies cannot metabolise it quickly enough, so it builds up under the skin to cause a harmless and temporary type of jaundice. If the bilirubin levels get too high it is stored in the brain and can cause brain damage, which is why some newborns are treated under phototherapy lamps to break down the bilirubin.
birth canalThe passage between the cervix and the outside world through which the baby travels on the way to being born; usually called the vagina.
birth centreAn alternative to a hospital where a woman can go through labour and delivery for a low-risk birth.
birthing roomA birthing room is a place designed and equipped for women giving birth.
blastocystThe fertilised egg at around the stage when it enters the uterus. The blastocyst continually and rapidly divides into more and more cells on the way to becoming an embryo.
bloody showA 'show' or 'bloody show' is the discharge of mucus tinged with blood that results from the mucus plug dislodging from the cervix as labour approaches.
bradycardiaA slow heart-rate, usually less than 60 beats per minute.
Braxton Hicks contractionsThe irregular 'practice' contractions of the uterus that occur throughout pregnancy, but can be felt especially towards the end of pregnancy. They can sometimes be uncomfortable and intense, but are not usually painful.
breast pumpA breast pump is designed to extract milk from a mother's breasts so that she, or someone else, can bottle-feed her baby later with the expressed milk. Pumps range from inexpensive manual models, battery or mains-powered models, to powerful machines which can empty both breasts at the same time within a few minutes.
breastfeeding counsellorAn individual trained in assisting with breastfeeding.
breathing monitorA device used to monitor a baby's breathing to help prevent cot death (which is also known as sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS).
breech positionA baby is said to be breech presentation, or breech position, when it is 'bottom down' rather than 'head down' in the uterus just before birth. Either the baby's bottom or feet would be born first. Around 3-4% of full-term babies are positioned this way.
breech presentationA baby is said to be breech presentation, or breech position, when it is 'bottom down' rather than 'head down' in the uterus just before birth. Either the baby's bottom or feet would be born first. Around 3-4 per cent of full-term babies are positioned this way.
c-sectionA caesarean or c-section is when the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It is used when a woman cannot give birth vaginally or if the baby is in distress or danger.
caesarean sectionA caesarean or c-section is when the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It is used when a woman cannot give birth vaginally or if the baby is in distress or danger.
carpal tunnel syndromeA condition associated with swelling and weight gain during pregnancy. The nerves in the wrist become compressed resulting in a tingling, burning or numbness in the hands. It usually goes away after delivery.
cephalopelvic disproportionThis is when a baby's head is too large to pass through the mother's pelvic opening. It can occur because the baby is disproportionately large, the baby is not in the best position for birth resulting in a larger head diameter than normal, the mother's pelvis is small or abnormally shaped, or as a result of abnormalities of the birth canal. It is a common cause of obstructed labour and can result in delivery by caesarean section.
cerebral palsyCerebral palsy (CP) is the term used to describe a physical impairment that affects movement. It is usually caused by brain damage in the developing fetus, during birth, or from illness just after birth. No two cases of CP are the same, and the term is used to describe a variety of conditions depending on which part of the brain was damaged. For example, some people with CP may have learning disabilities, speech problems, hearing impairment or epilepsy. For more information, visit the SCOPE website, www.scope.org.uk.
cervical capA cervical or Dutch cap is a birth control device (similar to a diaphragm, but smaller) which fits over a woman's cervix and keeps sperm from entering. It must be fitted by a doctor or nurse and checked yearly for a proper fit.
cervical dysplasiaCervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of cervical cells, usually with no symptoms. It has been linked to a sexually transmitted disease called human papillomavirus (genital warts). Mild cases of dysplasia usually resolve by themselves, while more severe cases require surgical removal of the abnormal cells.
cervical incompetenceThe condition in which the cervix, under pressure from the growing uterus, painlessly opens before a pregnancy has reached full term. A weak or incompetent cervix can cause miscarriage in the second trimester or premature labour in the third, but can be treated by surgical reinforcement of the cervical muscle (called a cervical stitch).
cervical mucus methodThe rhythm or cervical mucus method is a form of natural birth control which can work by timing intercourse according to the consistency of the woman's cervical mucus. Mucus similar to raw egg white signifies a time close to ovulation, when a woman is most fertile, while thick and cloudy mucus indicates a time when conception is less likely.
cervical stitchA cervical stitch is used to close a weak cervix (called an incompetent cervix) to support a pregnancy to term. It is most successful in preventing miscarriage and premature labour when put in during early pregnancy - at about 18 to 20 weeks.
cervical weaknessThe condition in which the cervix, under pressure from the growing uterus, painlessly opens before a pregnancy has reached full term. A weak or incompetent cervix can cause miscarriage in the second trimester or premature labour in the third, but can be treated by surgical reinforcement of the cervical muscle (called a cervical stitch).
cervicitisAn inflammation of the cervix, cervicitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or irritation of the cervix during childbirth or surgery. Symptoms include abnormal discharge, pain, and spotting.
cervixThe lower end or neck of the uterus which leads into the vagina, and gradually opens during labour.
CFCystic Fibrosis (CF) is a relatively rare inherited genetic disorder which affects the lungs and digestive system. Treatment is most effective when the disease is recognised early. Most children diagnosed with CF now reach early adulthood due to improvements in nutrition, physiotherapy and antibiotic treatment; some reach their forties and fifties.
chickenpoxChickenpox or varicella is a mild, highly contagious disease characterised by fever and itchy blisters all over the body. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus. It is very common in children but can affect people of all ages.
chlamydiaChlamydia trachomatis is a common sexually transmitted disease, which often has no visible symptoms. If untreated, chlamydia can make a woman infertile or be passed to a baby during childbirth, causing pneumonia, eye infections and, in severe cases, blindness. Chlamydia is not routinely tested for but can be treated with antibiotics.
chlamydia trachomatisChlamydia trachomatis is a common sexually transmitted disease, which often has no visible symptoms. If untreated, chlamydia can make a woman infertile or be passed to a baby during childbirth, causing pneumonia, eye infections and, in severe cases, blindness. Chlamydia is not routinely tested for but can be treated with antibiotics.
chloasmaBrown markings on the skin of a pregnant woman caused by hormonal changes, often seen on the face, in a pattern called 'butterfly' marking. These fade after pregnancy.
chorionic villus samplingChorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a diagnostic test carried out in early pregnancy, usually between Week 10 and Week 12 of pregnancy. Some of the cells which line the placenta, the chorionic villi, are removed through the cervix or abdomen using a needle or catheter. The cells are tested to see whether the developing fetus has Down's syndrome or other genetic abnormalities. Early results may help parents decide whether to terminate a pregnancy in the event of severe birth defects.
chromosomal abnormalitiesA chromosome is a collection of genes which determine how a baby will develop. An abnormal chromosome may result from an inherited problem, or be caused by a mutation, and can lead to disorders such as Down's syndrome. Chromosomal abnormality is the most common cause of miscarriage.
chronicA chronic condition is one which is ongoing or recurring. Chronic medical conditions include diabetes, epilepsy, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
circumcisionThe surgical removal of the foreskin which covers the head of a boy's penis. It is performed in some religions (such as the bris of Judaism) or for cultural reasons, but rarely for medical reasons.
cleft lipA cleft palate is a condition in which the lip, or the lip and palate (roof of the mouth), do not grow together. About one in 600 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate. Clefts can be repaired with surgery, usually performed within the first year after birth.
cleft palateA cleft palate is a condition in which the lip, or the lip and palate (roof of the mouth), do not grow together. About one in 600 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate. Clefts can be repaired with surgery, usually performed within the first year after birth.
club footCongenital talipes equinovarus is the most common form of club foot and describes a deformity of the foot and ankle present at birth. The condition results in one or both feet pointing down and inwards. It is much more common in boys. Club foot can be treated with physiotherapy, strapping, splinting or, in severe cases, surgery.
CMVCytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common viral infection transmitted by saliva, breast milk, or urine. Relatively rare and relatively mild, the infection does occasionally cause deafness, visual impairment and neurological problems in a developing fetus.
co-parentA person who shares parenting responsibilities for a child, such as a step-parent or unmarried partner.
coeliac diseaseCoeliac disease or gluten-sensitive enteropathy is an inherited disease caused by an allergic reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. The immune system attacks the lining of the intestines in response to the allergy. This common disease, if left untreated, can leave the intestine unable to absorb essential nutrients and vitamins leading to anaemia, bone disease and, rarely, forms of cancer.
cognitive developmentThe development of the brain and its functions - including perception, memory, and knowledge.
colicColic is the name given to long, unexplained bouts of crying in a baby - usually beginning between the second and third weeks of life and disappearing by four months. It is estimated that about 20% of babies are colicky.
colostrumColostrum is the first 'milk' the breasts produce as a precursor to breast milk. It is rich in fats, protein, and antibodies, which protect the baby against infection and kick-start the immune system. Most women produce colostrum a few days before and after childbirth; some women produce small amounts of it from the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy. It is gradually replaced by breastmilk over the first week or so of breastfeeding.
comfort habitsComfort habits are actions, such as thumb-sucking, hair-twirling, or blanket-carrying, which a baby or toddler uses to soothe himself.
computerised tomography scanA computerised tomography or CT scan is a medical diagnostic test which uses a high-speed X-ray machine connected to a computer to get 3-D views of organs, tumours, and bones.
conceptionConception or fertilisation is the moment when sperm and egg meet, join and form a single cell. It usually takes place in the Fallopian tubes. The fertilised egg then travels into the uterus, where it implants in the lining before developing into an embryo and then a fetus.
congenital heart problemsThese are heart problems which are present from birth. They may include ventricular septal defect (a hole in the septum) and transposition of the great vessels, where the pulmonary artery and the aorta are reversed. They may be corrected with surgery soon after birth, usually with a high rate of success.
congenital problemAny problem with a baby that is present from birth or has developed during pregnancy and is not inherited.
connective tissueA body tissue which makes up the main part of bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, and surrounds other tissues and organs
contractionThe tightening of a muscle. In labour, the strong, rhythmic contractions of the muscles of the uterus open up the cervix and push the baby out. Any contractions before labour begins are usually irregular and don't increase in intensity or duration.
controllable diseaseA disease or illness which is controllable is one which can't be cured but which can be managed with diet, exercise, or medicines.
convulsionA convulsion is a violent, involuntary muscular contraction.
cot deathThis term is used to describe the abrupt and unexpected death of a baby, often with no apparent and concrete reason. Cot death is the main cause of death among infants over one month of age. You can reduce the risk by putting your baby to sleep on his side or back and making sure that he does not become too hot.
coverlineThe coverline is the line drawn just above the six highest readings preceding a spike in a basal body temperature chart.
CPCerebral palsy (CP) is the term used to describe a physical impairment that affects movement. It is usually caused by brain damage in the developing fetus, during birth, or from illness just after birth. No two cases of CP are the same, and the term is used to describe a variety of conditions depending on which part of the brain was damaged. For example, some people with CP may have learning disabilities, speech problems, hearing impairment or epilepsy. For more information visit the SCOPE website, www.scope.org.uk.
cradle capSeborrhoeic dermatitis, commonly known as cradle cap, is a condition of the skin (usually on a baby's scalp) which causes crusting, scaling, and discolouration. It usually disappears during the baby's first year.
craniosynostosisThis term refers to the premature closing of joints or sutures in the skull.
croupAn illness caused by a viral infection in the area of a child's vocal cords. It is recognised by a tight, dry, harsh, 'barking' cough. Croup generally lasts for five or six days and most commonly affects children aged under three.
crowningDuring labour, when the baby's head can be seen at the opening of the vagina, it is said to 'crown'.
CT scanA computerised tomography or CT scan is a medical diagnostic test which uses a high-speed X-ray machine connected to a computer to get 3-D views of organs, tumours, and bones.
CVSChorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a diagnostic test carried out in early pregnancy, usually between Week 10 and Week 12 of pregnancy. Some of the cells that line the placenta, the chorionic villi, are removed through the cervix or abdomen using a needle or catheter. The cells are tested to see whether the developing fetus has Down's syndrome or other genetic abnormalities. Early results may help parents decide whether to terminate a pregnancy in the event of severe birth defects.
cyanosisA bluish colouration of the skin caused by lack of oxygen in the blood.
cystic fibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is a relatively rare inherited genetic disorder which affects the lungs and digestive system. Treatment is most effective when the disease is recognised early. Most children diagnosed with CF now reach early adulthood due to improvements in nutrition, physiotherapy and antibiotic treatment; some reach their forties and fifties.
cytomegalovirus infectionCytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common viral infection transmitted by saliva, breast milk, or urine. Relatively rare and relatively mild, the infection does occasionally cause deafness, visual impairment and neurological problems in a developing fetus.
deficiency diseasesAny disorder caused by a lack of essential vitamins or minerals.
dehydrationDehydration occurs when there is too little water in the body's tissues. Babies can become dehydrated very quickly as a result of vomiting and diarrhoea.
delivery roomA room in a hospital or birth centre that is equipped for childbirth.
Depo-ProveraThis injected form of birth control requires injections of progesterone every 12 weeks.
depressionA mental condition characterised by feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, apathy, fatigue, and anxiety.
DESDiethylstilboestrol (DES) is a synthetic form of oestrogen once given to women to prevent miscarriage. Its use was discontinued in the late 1960s when it was found to cause serious side effects, including cancer, infertility, and miscarriage.
developmental milestonesThese are the major and minor social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills acquired by children as they grow up.
diabetesDiabetes is a disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin (the hormone which converts sugars into energy), resulting in too much sugar in the bloodstream. It can usually be controlled with appropriate treatment, diet, and exercise.
diaphragm1. The flexible sheet of muscle and fibre that divides the chest from the abdomen. 2. A contraceptive device for use by women; the diaphragm is a circular barrier which is placed over the cervix before intercourse takes place.
diaphragmatic herniaA hole in the diaphragm can allow abdominal contents to push up into the chest cavity. In severe instances, a baby's stomach and part of the large intestines will displace the heart and lungs, requiring emergency surgery.
diarrhoeaLoose, watery, and frequent bowel movements - often associated with a virus or bacterial infection. In babies, diarrhoea can quickly cause dehydration.
diethylstilboestrolDiethylstilboestrol (DES) is a synthetic form of oestrogen once given to women to prevent miscarriage. Its use was discontinued in the late 1960s when it was found to cause serious side effects, including cancer, infertility, and miscarriage.