Terms and Definitions

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Throughout your pregnancy and birthing experience, you may hear terms you are not familiar with. Explore the glossary for definitions of some of the most common terms related to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Antidepressants

Drugs that are used to treat depression.
Baby Blues

Feelings of sadness, fear, anger, or anxiety occurring about 3 days after childbirth and usually ending within 1 to 2 weeks.
Cesarean Birth (C-Section)

Birth of a fetus from the uterus through an incision (cut) made in the woman's abdomen.
Estrogen

A female hormone produced in the ovaries.
Fetus

The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization.
Hormone

A substance made in the body that controls the function of cells or organs.
Menstrual Periods

The monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus.
Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN)

A doctor with special training and education in women's health.
Postpartum Depression

A type of depressive mood disorder that develops in the first year after the birth of a child. This type of depression can affect a woman's ability to take care of her child.
Prenatal Care

A program of care for a pregnant woman before the birth of her baby.
Progesterone

A female hormone that is made in the ovaries and prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy.
Psychotherapy

Working with a therapist to identify problems and find ways to change behavior.