Pregnancy and Childbirth Terms

Front

Birth Plan

Back

Written plan created by the pregnant mother to voice expectations and preferences during the labor and delivery process.

Front

Cervix

Back

Lower, circular, narrow end of the uterus.

Front

Cesarean Section (C-Section)

Back

Incision made in the abdomen and uterus of a pregnant female used to deliver a fetus.

Front

Contractions

Back

Tightening and relaxing of the muscles surrounding the uterus during labor.

Front

Crowning

Back

When the head of the fetus becomes and remains visible through the opening of the vagina.

Front

Doula

Back

Trained birthing companion who provides informational, physical, and emotional support to laboring mothers throughout the duration of labor and delivery.

Front

Dilation

Back

Process of opening and expanding the cervix to ten centimeters during labor.

Front

Effacement

Back

Stretching and thinning of the cervix during labor.

Front

Family Practitioner

Back

Physician trained in general medicine.

Front

Midwife

Back

Practitioner trained to assist pregnant mothers in childbirth.