Protein substance found in most tissues (checked for in urine tests).
Allergy
Reaction produced by sensitivity to a 'foreign' substance.
Anaesthetics
Drugs used to cause local numbness or general unconsciousness.
Analgesics
Pain-relieving drugs which don't cause unconsciousness.
Antibody
Protective substance formed in body against a specific infection.
Apgar score
System used to assess well-being of newborn babies.
B
Bearing down
Pushing movement by mother during second stage of labour.
Blood groups
The ABO classification system depends on whether red cells have A or B antigens (proteins). Your group may be A or B or AB (with both antigens) or O (with neither antigen present). Your Rhesus group relates to the presence or absence of the Rhesus factor (D antigen). About 85 per cent of British people have the factor and are Rh-positive; the remainder are Rh-negative. (Rh-negative mothers may need extra care in pregnancy.)
Blood pressure (BP)
Tension of blood in arteries. Hypertension means that pressure is raised.
Breech presentation
Buttocks or feet (instead of head) are due to be delivered first.
C
Cervix
Neck of womb which opens gradually during labour for delivery of baby.
Contractions
Regular tightening of womb muscles in preparation for delivery.
Crowning
When baby's head can be seen at the vaginal opening.
Cystitis
Inflammation of bladder, usually due to infection.
