See breastfeeding.

See Pelvic inflammatory disease, Appendix B.

Infection of the pelvic organs by tuberculosis bacteria from the lungs.

The skeletal structure located in the lower part of the human torso, resting on the legs and supporting the spine. In females, also refers to the hollow portion of the pelvic bone structure through which the fetus passes during birth.

The male organ for urination and sexual intercourse (see Male Anatomy).

A hole in the wall of an organ or the process of making the hole, as with a medical instrument.

The organ that nourishes a growing fetus. The placenta (afterbirth) is formed during pregnancy and comes out of the uterus within a few minutes after the birth of a baby.

After childbirth; the first 6 weeks after childbirth.

Hypertension with either excess protein in the urine, or local or generalized swelling, or both (but without convulsions) after 20 weeks of pregnancy. May progress to eclampsia.

A birth that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Actions taken to prevent disease, such as washing hands or providing drugs or other therapy.

A steroid hormone that is produced by the ovary after ovulation. Prepares the endometrium for implantation of a fertilized egg (ovum), protects the embryo, enhances development of the placenta, and helps prepare the breasts for breastfeeding.

Any of a large group of synthetic drugs that have effects similar to those of progesterone. Some are used in hormonal contraceptives.

See vaginal bleeding.

Occurs when the fluid-filled sac surrounding a pregnant woman's fetus breaks 24 hours or more before delivery of the infant.

See preventive measures.

Male reproductive organ where some of the semen is produced (see Male Anatomy).

Infection of the reproductive organs during the first 42 days postpartum (puerperium).

See Pulmonary embolism, Appendix B.

Continuous hypertension in the pulmonary artery, impeding blood flow from the heart to the lungs.

Inflammation of the cervix accompanied by a pus-like discharge. Often indicates infection with gonorrhea or chlamydia.

A yellowish-white fluid formed in infected tissue.