Medical Terms and Definitions During Pregnancy and Birth in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Understanding common pregnancy and birth terms can make your prenatal visits and delivery experience in Grand Rapids, MI less stressful and more empowering. This glossary explains key medical words you may hear at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health, or other West Michigan clinics and hospitals.

Grand Rapids families often navigate pregnancy through snowy winters, humid summers, and frequent visits to local OB/GYNs and midwives. Use this guide to better understand what your care team is talking about.

A–C: Common Pregnancy and Birth Terms

Abortion

Termination (ending) of a pregnancy. This may be done with prescribed medications (medical abortion) or a surgical procedure, following Michigan laws and guidelines. Your OB/GYN or family doctor in Grand Rapids can explain options and local resources.

Amniotic Fluid

The clear, slightly yellow liquid (“waters”) that surrounds and protects the baby inside the uterus.

Amniotic Sac

The thin, fluid-filled membrane that holds the amniotic fluid and the baby. When your “water breaks,” this sac has ruptured.

Anaesthetic

A medication used to block pain. During labor in Grand Rapids hospitals, this may include local anaesthetic (numbs a small area), regional anaesthetic (such as an epidural), or general anaesthetic (you are asleep).

Anaesthetist / Anesthesiologist

A doctor who specializes in giving anaesthesia and managing pain relief during procedures such as a C‑section or epidural.

Antenatal / Prenatal

The period of pregnancy before birth. Antenatal (prenatal) care includes check-ups, ultrasounds, and blood tests with your Grand Rapids provider.

Antepartum Haemorrhage

Bleeding from the vagina during pregnancy, after 20 weeks and before birth. This can be serious and needs urgent medical assessment at a local hospital.

Apgar Score

A quick test given to a baby at 1 minute and 5 minutes after birth. It assesses:

• Appearance (skin color)
• Pulse (heart rate)
• Grimace (reflex response)
• Activity (muscle tone)
• Respiration (breathing)

Scores range from 0 to 10. Most babies score 7–9.
A score lower than 7 means the baby may need help with breathing or other support, often provided in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Spectrum Health or other Grand Rapids hospitals.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Any medical procedure used to help achieve pregnancy, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Several fertility clinics serve the Grand Rapids and West Michigan region.

Birth Canal

The passage the baby travels through during vaginal birth, including the cervix and vagina.

Birth Plan

A written document that outlines your preferences for labor and birth, such as pain relief options, positions, and who you want present. Grand Rapids hospitals usually provide templates and encourage you to bring your birth plan to your delivery.

Blood Transfusion

A procedure in which you receive donated blood through an IV. It may be needed if you experience heavy bleeding during or after birth.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Irregular, usually painless “practice” contractions that can start in the second or third trimester.
They do not get stronger or closer together like true labor and are sometimes called “false labour.”

Breaking of Water (Artificial Rupture of Membranes)

When a healthcare provider uses a small, pointy-tipped instrument to intentionally break the amniotic sac. This may be done in a Grand Rapids labor and delivery unit to help speed up a slow labor.

Breech

When a baby is positioned with its bottom or feet down in the uterus, instead of the head. Your provider may discuss options such as turning the baby (external cephalic version) or planning a C‑section.

Caesarean Section (C‑Section)

A surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through cuts in the abdomen and uterus. C‑sections are commonly performed in Grand Rapids hospitals when vaginal birth is not safe or recommended.

Cervix

The narrow, lower end of the uterus that opens (dilates) during labor to allow the baby to pass into the birth canal.

Conception

The moment a sperm and egg join to form a single cell. Also called fertilisation, impregnation, or insemination.

Contraction

The tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles during labor. True contractions gradually become stronger, longer, and closer together.

Crowning

The point during birth when the baby’s head becomes visible at the vaginal opening and stays visible between contractions.

Dilation

The opening of the cervix during labor, measured in centimeters from 0 to 10. Full dilation (10 cm) is needed before pushing.

D–G: Pregnancy Stages and Conditions

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy where the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.
In most cases, an ectopic pregnancy is not viable and can be life-threatening if untreated. This is an emergency and requires prompt care at a hospital.

Embryo

The term for a fertilised egg from conception until the end of the 8th week of pregnancy.

Epidural

A type of regional anaesthetic commonly used in labor. Medication is injected into the lower back to numb the lower half of the body while you remain awake. Epidurals are widely available in Grand Rapids labor and delivery units.

Fallopian Tubes

Two thin tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus.
This is where fertilisation most often occurs if sperm meet the egg.

False Labour

Another term for Braxton Hicks contractions. These do not lead to birth and don’t follow a regular pattern.

Fertility

The ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term.

Fertility Treatment

Medical treatment that helps a person conceive. This may include hormone medications, procedures like IVF, or surgery. Grand Rapids fertility clinics and OB/GYNs offer a range of options.

First-Degree Tear

A small tear of the perineal skin (the area between the vagina and anus) that can occur during birth. It often does not require stitches.

First Trimester

The first 14 weeks of pregnancy.

Folic Acid

A B vitamin found in green leafy vegetables and prenatal vitamins. It helps prevent anemia and significantly reduces the risk of certain birth defects, including spina bifida. Michigan providers strongly recommend folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy.

Fontanelles

The six “soft spots” on a baby’s head where skull bones have not yet fully fused. They allow the skull to compress slightly during birth.
The fontanelles usually close completely by around age 2.

Forceps

Tong-shaped instruments that may be gently placed around the baby’s head to help guide the baby through the birth canal during delivery.

Full Term

A pregnancy that has reached 37 to 42 weeks of gestation.

Gestation

The length of time a baby grows in the uterus, measured in weeks.

Gestational Diabetes

A type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when blood sugar levels become too high due to inadequate insulin.

• It is usually diagnosed with blood tests done in the second trimester.
• It is treatable with diet, exercise, and sometimes medication.
• It usually disappears after pregnancy but increases the risk of future type 2 diabetes.

Because Michigan has higher rates of diabetes and obesity than some states, Grand Rapids providers closely monitor for gestational diabetes.

G–L: Specialists, Bleeding, and Early Baby Care

Gynaecologist / Gynecologist

A doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive health. Many OB/GYNs in Grand Rapids provide both gynecologic and obstetric care.

Haemorrhage / Hemorrhage

Severe bleeding. In pregnancy, this can occur before, during, or after birth and requires urgent medical treatment.

Home Birth

Labor and delivery that take place at home with a qualified midwife. In West Michigan’s cold winters, planning for weather, emergency transport, and backup hospital care is especially important.

Immunisation

The administration of vaccines to protect against infectious diseases. Babies in Grand Rapids are typically vaccinated according to the CDC and Michigan Department of Health schedules.

In Utero

A term meaning “inside the uterus,” referring to the baby before birth.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

A fertility treatment where eggs are removed from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a lab, and then one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus.

Incontinence

Accidental leakage of urine or stool. This can happen during pregnancy or after birth and may improve with pelvic floor exercises and other treatments.

Induced / Induction of Labour

When labor is started artificially using medications or procedures (such as breaking the waters) rather than waiting for it to begin on its own.

Jaundice

A condition where a person’s skin and the whites of their eyes look yellow due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood.
In newborns, jaundice is common and often resolves on its own, but sometimes requires treatment such as phototherapy in a nursery or NICU.

Labia

The folds of skin around the opening of the vagina (labia majora and labia minora).

Labour / Labor

The process the body goes through to birth the baby, including contractions, dilation of the cervix, and delivery of the baby and placenta.

Lactation Consultant

A healthcare professional trained to support breastfeeding. Grand Rapids hospitals and community clinics often have lactation consultants to help with latch, milk supply, and pumping—especially useful for parents returning to work or school.

L–P: Baby Size, Providers, and Mental Health

Low Birthweight

When a baby weighs less than 2,500 grams (about 5 pounds 8 ounces) at birth. Babies born early or with growth issues may be low birthweight and might need special care, especially during cold Michigan winters when infection risk is higher.

Maternal and Child Health Nurse

A nurse trained in caring for mothers and children from birth through early childhood. In Grand Rapids, similar services are provided by pediatric clinics, family medicine practices, and programs through the Kent County Health Department.

Meconium

A baby’s first stool. It is dark green or black and has a tar-like consistency.
Passing meconium before birth may be a sign of fetal distress and requires close monitoring.

Midwife

A healthcare professional trained to care for women during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the post-birth period. Grand Rapids has midwives practicing in hospitals, birth centers, and some home-birth settings.

Model of Care

The way maternity care is organized—for example, midwife-led care, obstetrician-led care, or shared care with your family doctor.

Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. It can occur at any time of day and may be worsened by strong smells or heat (including humid Michigan summers).

Multiple Pregnancy

A pregnancy with more than one baby (twins, triplets, etc.). Multiple pregnancies are usually monitored more closely and may involve high-risk specialists.

Natural Birth

Birth without medical interventions such as epidurals, forceps, or C‑section. This typically refers to an unmedicated vaginal birth.

Neonatal Period

The time from birth up to 4 weeks of age.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

A specialized hospital unit for newborns who need a high level of medical care, such as breathing support or treatment for infection. Spectrum Health and other Grand Rapids hospitals operate NICUs for West Michigan families.

Neonate

A newborn baby, especially within the first 28 days of life.

Newborn Nursery / Special Care Nursery (SCN)

Hospital units for babies who need observation or a moderate level of medical care, but not full NICU-level support.

Obstetrician

A doctor who specializes in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. OBs in Grand Rapids practice at major health systems including Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health.

Ovaries

The female reproductive organs that store and release eggs and produce hormones.

Ovulation

The monthly release of a mature egg from an ovary. A person is most fertile around the time of ovulation.

Ovum

A mature egg cell released from the ovary.

Paediatrician / Pediatrician

A doctor who specializes in the health and development of children from birth through adolescence. Many Grand Rapids families choose a pediatrician during pregnancy to be ready for baby’s first visits.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel. They can help prevent or treat incontinence during and after pregnancy.

Perineal Haematoma

A collection of blood under the skin of the perineum (area between the vagina and anus) that can occur after birth. It may cause swelling and discomfort.

Perineum

The area of skin and muscle between the vagina and the anus. This area often stretches and may tear during birth.

Placenta

The organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby and removes waste products via the umbilical cord.

Postnatal / Postpartum

The period after birth, usually considered the first 6 weeks but often extending through the first year as your body and life adjust.

Postnatal Depression / Postpartum Depression

A form of depression that can occur after childbirth. Symptoms include sadness, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty bonding with the baby.
In Grand Rapids, support is available through your OB/GYN, primary care doctor, local therapists, and community resources such as the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health programs.

Postpartum Haemorrhage

Heavy bleeding after birth that can be life-threatening. Hospital staff are trained to recognize and treat this quickly.

Premature / Preterm

A baby born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. Premature babies often require care in a NICU or special care nursery—especially important in Michigan’s colder months when respiratory illnesses are more common.

P–Z: Labor Stages, Birth Injuries, and Tests

Second-Degree Tear

A tear that involves the perineal skin and muscles, but not the anus.
Stitches are used to repair these tears, and they usually heal well with proper care.

Second-Stage Labour

The stage of labor from full dilation of the cervix (10 cm) until the birth of the baby.

Second Trimester

The middle part of pregnancy, from 14 to 26 weeks.

Spina Bifida

A birth defect that occurs during the first month of pregnancy when the baby’s backbone does not fully close, leaving part of the spinal cord exposed.
Spina bifida cannot be cured, but a range of treatments and management options is available. Folic acid supplementation before and early in pregnancy significantly reduces the risk.

Spontaneous Labour

Labor that begins on its own, without medical induction.

Stillbirth

The death of a baby in the womb at or after 20 weeks of pregnancy. This is a deeply emotional event, and local hospitals and counseling services in Grand Rapids offer bereavement support.

Stretch Marks

Lines that appear on the skin as it stretches, often on the abdomen, breasts, hips, or thighs during pregnancy.
They usually fade slowly after delivery, though they may not disappear completely.

TENS Machine

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation device. A small machine that delivers mild electrical impulses to the skin to help reduce pain, sometimes used for labor pain management.

Termination of Pregnancy

Another term for abortion—the medical or surgical ending of a pregnancy.

Theatre / Operating Room

The specialized room in a hospital where surgeries, including C‑sections, are performed.

Third- or Fourth-Degree Tear

More severe tears of the perineum that extend to the anal sphincter or rectum. These require surgical repair, often in an operating room, and careful follow-up.

Third-Stage Labour

The stage after the baby is born, when the placenta is delivered.

Third Trimester

The final part of pregnancy, from 27 weeks until birth.

Trimester

One of the three stages of pregnancy:

• First trimester: conception to 14 weeks
• Second trimester: 14 to 26 weeks
• Third trimester: 27 weeks to birth

Ultrasound

A painless scan that uses sound waves to create images of the baby and uterus. Ultrasounds are routinely performed in Grand Rapids clinics to check your baby’s growth and development.

Umbilical Cord

The cord that connects the baby to the placenta. It carries oxygen and nutrients to the baby and removes waste products.

Uterus

The muscular organ in the pelvis where the baby grows during pregnancy.

Vacuum Cap or Ventouse

A suction device attached to the baby’s head to assist with vaginal birth when help is needed to guide the baby out.

VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean)

A vaginal birth after having had a previous C‑section. Many Grand Rapids hospitals offer VBAC when it is medically safe.

Viable Pregnancy

A pregnancy in which the baby has reached a stage where survival outside the womb is possible with appropriate medical care, typically around 24 weeks and beyond, depending on individual circumstances and available NICU support.

Walking Epidural

A lighter form of epidural that provides pain relief while allowing some movement in the legs. Availability may vary among Grand Rapids hospitals.

Water Birth

Giving birth in a tub or pool of warm water. Some birth centers and midwife practices in West Michigan offer water birth or water immersion for pain relief during labor.

Waters

Everyday term for amniotic fluid. When your “waters break,” the amniotic sac has ruptured and fluid leaks from the vagina.

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy in Grand Rapids or West Michigan, you can access care and information through:

• Emergency: Call 911 for an ambulance in any emergency.
• Your GP / Family Doctor: For pregnancy confirmation, referrals, and ongoing care.
• Midwife or Obstetrician: For antenatal care, labor, and birth.
• Local Hospitals:
  • Spectrum Health
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health
  • Mercy Health
• Kent County Health Department & Grand Rapids Public Health: For prenatal programs, WIC, immunizations, breastfeeding support, and postpartum resources.
• Maternal and Child Health Services & Pediatric Clinics: For newborn check-ups, growth monitoring, and vaccinations.

Understanding these medical terms can help you communicate more confidently with your Grand Rapids healthcare team and make informed decisions throughout your pregnancy and birth journey.