Abruptio Placentae / Placental abruption
Normally, the placenta remains firmly attached to the wall of the womb until after the baby has been born. In a small number of cases (about 1 per cent), though, it separates before the baby is born.
Acceleration of labour
The speeding up of labour by the use of drugs, usually via a Syntocinon drip
Afterpains
Your womb will be gradually shrinking down to its pre-pregnant size. In the first two or three days, you may be aware of the contractions that are helping it to shrink. These contractions are known as ‘afterpains’.
Alpha Feto Protein (AFP)
A protein from the baby, found in the mother’s blood.
Amniotic fluid
Amniotic fluid is a colourless fluid that surrounds the baby in your uterus. It helps to protect and cushion your baby inside the amniotic sac and protects against infection to the baby and your uterus. Amniotic fluid also plays a vital role in the development of internal organs, such as the lungs and kidneys.
Anal fissure
An anal fissure is a break or tear in the skin of the anal canal.
Apgar score
Apgar is a quick test performed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth. The 1-minute score determines how well the baby tolerated the birthing process. The 5-minute score assesses how well the newborn is adapting to their new environment.
The rating is based on a total score of 1 to 10, with 10 suggesting the healthiest infant.
Artificial rupture of membranes (ARM)
If the neck of your womb (the cervix) is slightly open because you have had some contractions, it is possible to use a long hook to nick the bag of waters where they bulge down in front of your baby’s head. Breaking the waters in this way may stimulate the onset of strong labour.
Assisted delivery
The use forceps or ventouse to speed up the delivery, or to move the baby if he has become stuck.
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