Amniotic Fluid

A clear yellowy fluid contained in the amniotic sac that surrounds the baby during pregnancy. It protects against infection and is vital to the development of the baby’s internal organs.

Nuchal Fold Translucency Scan

A test for Downs Syndrome and other chromosomal disorders that does not involve invasive techniques. A measurement is taken of the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck. Babies with Downs Syndrome tend to have more fluid than those without. This information is then used in conjunction with the mother’s age, blood tests and the baby’s heart rate to give a risk factor e.g.
one in six hundred.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy that is growing outside of the uterus, in 95% of cases in the fallopian tubes, however the egg can implant in an ovary, the abdomen, or the cervix.

Placenta

A spongy temporary organ that attaches the baby to the mother’s uterus and allows for the transfer of nutrients to the baby during pregnancy.