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Midwifery Terminology
For students and mums-to-be
There is a staggering amount of terminology in midwifery. So this list is for midwifery students, other healthcare professionals, and mums-to-be, trying to interpret their medical notes. Here is a list of some common terminology you will come across in maternity settings.
Amniotic fluid
This is the fluid inside the amniotic sac that the baby grows in. It is a clear watery fluid. It acts as a cushion to protect the baby from injury and also protects the umbilical cord from any restriction preventing blood flow between the mother and baby.
Analgesia
This is the medical term for pain relief.
Braxton hicks contractions
These are known as ‘false’ contractions’, they are similar to the contractions felt during labour, but they do not lead to labour. They are simply preparing your body for when the big day arrives.
Breech
This is a term used to describe the positioning of the baby in the uterus. A breech baby could be either bottom down or feet down, instead of being in the usual head-down position.
