Understanding the parts of your body and how they work during pregnancy and labor is just as important as getting as understanding your emotions. Below you will find a few terms you should know with a basic definition. To read a more thorough definition click on the word and you will be redirected to the definition of the word on MedicineNet's Dictionary:
- Uterus - the organ in a woman's body that houses the baby and placenta
- Cervix - the opening of your uterus
- Placenta - the organ that develops during pregnancy and provides nourishment to the baby
- Amniotic Fluid - the fluid that serves as a shock absorber and cushion for baby; baby also drinks this fluid
- Umbilical Cord - the cord with three vessels that attaches to the baby's abdomen and the placenta which acts as a transport for nutrients to the baby and waste from the baby.
- Pelvis - the mother's bone that acts as a "cradle" to hold the growing baby
- Perineum - the tissue between the vagina and rectum that stretches during birth; The massaging of this area is known as perineal massage
- episiotomy-An incision made to the perineum to prevent tearing of the perineum during delivery.
- Vagina - the birth canal that the baby must pass through in order to be born
- Dilation - The enlargement, stretching, or expansion of the cervix. This is also called "dilatation."
