Helpful Terms & Definitions

Drugs that are used to treat depression.

Feelings of sadness, fear, anger or anxiety occurring about 3 days after childbirth and usually ending within 1 to 2 weeks.

Birth of a fetus from the uterus through an incision (cut) made in the woman's abdomen.

A female hormone produced in the ovaries.

The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization.

A substance made in the body that controls the function of cells or organs.

The monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus.

A doctor with special training and education in women's health.

A type of depressive mood disorder that develops in the first year after the birth of a child. This type of depression can affect a woman's ability to take care of her child.

A program of care for a pregnant woman before the birth of her baby.

A female hormone that is made in the ovaries and prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy.

Working with a therapist to identify problems and find ways to change behavior.