| Vaccine |
Preparations used to immunize against disease. Before using vaccines, research the pros and cons of this invasive means for disease prevention. |
| Vacuum Extraction |
When a suction cup attached to a machine is placed on a baby's head to aid the doctor in delivery. |
| Vaginal Birth |
A baby delivered vaginally. |
| Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) |
A vaginal delivery after a woman had previously delivered a baby by cesarean section. |
| Varicella Vaccine (Chicken Pox) |
Latest vaccine developed for children. Estimated to be 70-90% effective--if your child should still come down with chicken pox, it will be mild. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving it at the same time as the MMR vaccine--between 12-15 months. |
| Varicose Veins |
Abnormally swollen veins, usually on the legs. A common, often hereditary condition during pregnancy that can be helped by wearing support stockings. |
| Vas Deferens |
One of 2 tubes through which sperm travel and combine with semen. A man's vasa deferentia (pl.) are severed in a vasectomy. |
| Vasectomy |
A surgical procedure to effect sterility in a man. The procedure cuts the vasa deferentia tubes, preventing sperm from being ejaculated. |
| Vasography |
An infertility test done on a man to determine if his vasa deferentia are blocked. See vas deferens. |
| Vegan |
Diet which excludes any animal products. |
| Vegetarian |
Diet which excludes animal flesh but may include eggs and dairy products. |
| Ventilator |
A device to help an individual breathe. Can also "breathe for" a patient. |
| Vernix Caseosa |
Greasy, white substance that covers a fetus in utero. Protects the fetus' skin. |
| Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) |
A baby weighing under 3.3 pounds at birth, at risk of illness and death. |
| Viable |
Term for an infant who is considered capable of living. The baby must be at least 2.2 pounds and have reached a gestational age of 28 weeks. |
| Virus |
A contagious, airborne infection, such as a cold, that can't be treated with antibiotics. Immunizations against certain life-threatening viruses, such as polio and measles, are included in a baby's routine well-baby checkup. |
| Vitamins |
A group of complex chemical compounds which are vital to normal functioning of the body. Often taken in pill form to supplement daily diets. Pregnant women should take a daily supplement to ensure proper nutrition. |
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Pregnancy Information & Survival Tips