Fetus: The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization.
Genes: Segments of DNA that contain instructions for the development of a person’s physical traits and control of the processes in the body. They are the basic units of heredity and can be passed down from parent to child.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A virus that attacks certain cells of the body’s immune system. If left untreated, HIV can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): A special part of a hospital in which sick newborns receive medical care.
Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor with special training and education in women’s health.
Opioid Use Disorder: A treatable disease that can be caused by frequent opioid use. It is sometimes called opioid addiction.
Placental Abruption: A condition in which the placenta has begun to separate from the uterus before the fetus is born.
Prenatal Care: A program of care for a pregnant woman before the birth of her baby.
Preterm: Less than 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Stillbirth: Birth of a dead fetus.