Glossary - High-Risk Pregnancy
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alpha-fetoprotein - a protein produced by the fetus that is excreted into the amniotic fluid. Abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein may indicate brain or spinal cord defects, multiple fetuses, a miscalculated due date, or chromosomal disorders.
amniocentesis - a test performed to determine chromosomal and genetic disorders and certain birth defects. The test involves inserting a needle through the abdominal and uterine wall into the amniotic sac to retrieve a sample of amniotic fluid.
amniotic sac - a thin-walled sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The sac is filled with amniotic fluid - liquid made by the fetus and the amnion (the membrane that covers the fetal side of the placenta) which protects the fetus from injury and helps to regulate the temperature of the fetus.
anemia - a decrease of red blood cells in the blood.
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biophysical profile - a test that uses the nonstress test and ultrasound to examine fetal movements, heart rate, and amniotic fluid amounts.
bilirubin - substance that results from red blood cell breakdown.
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cerclage - a procedure used to suture the cervical opening.
chorioamnionitis - a serious infection of the placental tissues.
chorionic villus sampling (CVS) - placental tissue that is sometimes retrieved for laboratory analysis. Cells from this tissue can be tested for certain genetic abnormalities and chromosomal disorders.
congenital abnormality - an abnormality present at birth.
cordocentesis - a procedure to sample some of the umbilical cord blood during pregnancy.
corticosteroid - medication given to the pregnant woman to help mature the lungs of the fetus.
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Doppler flow - A type of ultrasound which use sound waves to measure blood flow.
ductus arteriosus - connecting blood vessel between the pulmonary artery and the aorta in the fetus.
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eclampsia - a severe form of pregnancy-induced hypertension resulting in seizures.
ectopic pregnancy - an abnormal pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus.
edema - swelling due to the buildup of fluid.
estriol - a hormone produced by the placenta and by the fetal liver and adrenal glands.
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fetal fibronectin (FFN) - a protein that helps "glue together" the tissues of the placenta.
fetal heart rate monitoring - a method of checking the rate and rhythm of the fetal heartbeat.
fetus - an unborn baby from the eighth week after fertilization until delivery.
folic acid - a nutrient found in some green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, citrus fruits, fortified breakfast cereals, and some vitamin supplements. Folic acid can hel