September 18, 2012
by Amy
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Episiotomy: a surgical incision in the perineum (the tissue between the vagina and the anus), aimed at preventing the tearing of perineal tissue during childbirth by cutting a planned incision. At one time, it was believed that a surgical incision … Continue reading
August 29, 2012
by Amy
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Meconium is the first stool (bowel movement) of a newborn baby. It is dark green, tarry, and sticky, and is composed of the cells that the fetus consumes during pregnancy (including amniotic fluid). Usually, meconium stays in the newborn’s bowel until … Continue reading
August 13, 2012
by Amy
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Doula: The word doula comes from an ancient Greek word, meaning “a woman who serves”. Today, the word Doula has come to refer to the specially trained birth professional, who provides physical and emotional support during all stages of pregnancy, … Continue reading
July 23, 2012
by Amy
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Birth Trauma: when a birth experience produces some or all of the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), usually due to the threat of danger or the perceived threat of danger to mother or baby. “A birth is defined … Continue reading
July 4, 2012
by Amy
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Induction of Labor/IOL: your birth care provider may use a variety of methods to stimulate uterine contractions and induce labor for several reasons, including: labor contractions do not begin on their own within 1-2 weeks after your due date your water … Continue reading
June 13, 2012
by Amy
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Last month when I asked for topics that readers wanted to see covered here on Birth Literacy, Kristen requested information on VBAC/Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. This topic is full of history and a complex example of weighing different risks. I’ll … Continue reading
June 6, 2012
by Amy
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Preeclampsia: Approximately 2 – 6 % of healthy, first-time pregnant women will develop a complication called preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is diagnosed when a woman develops high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy and there is protein present in her urine (this is … Continue reading
May 25, 2012
by Amy
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On Wednesday we talked about delayed cord clamping, so it seemed natural to provide a little more background information on the umbilical cord today. There are many things to talk about, so this will be a multifaceted definition post. Umbilical … Continue reading
May 4, 2012
by Amy
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Epidural Analgesia: a pain relief intervention for laboring women. The epidural is a regional anesthetic that blocks pain (via blocked nerve impulses) in the lower half of the body. For laboring women, the epidural provides effective pain relief. There are several … Continue reading
April 27, 2012
by Amy
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Mucus Plug: a thick plug, comprised of mucus, which acts as a gatekeeper, protecting the uterus from infection during pregnancy. Toward the end of pregnancy, as your cervix begins to efface and dilate, this mucus plug may fall out. It’s … Continue reading