Glossary
Pregnancy: Growth of an embryo/fetus in the uterus.Fetus: Term for an unborn baby from the end of the 8th week after conception until birth.
Ultrasound: A diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
Fibroids: They are benign tumors of the smooth muscle of the uterus and are the most common reason for performing a hysterectomy.
Infertility: The inability to produce children.
Multiple pregnancy: The presence of more than one foetus in the uterus.
Ectopic pregnancy: Growth of an embryo/fetus outside the cavity of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube or abdominal cavity.
Gestational age: A reference to the age of the fetus, counting from the first day of the mother''s last menstrual period. It is usually referred to in weeks, 37 weeks is the dividing line between premature or preterm and normal, 42 weeks between normal and postmature.
Miscarriage: Expulsion of a foetus before it has developed sufficiently to survive on its own.
Gynecologist: A doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the female reproductive organs.
Amniotic sac: Membranes which contain the fetus and the amniotic fluid. The amniotic sac and the amniotic fluid are often refereed to as the "bag of waters."
