Glossary F

Glossary F

Fetal alcohol syndrome refers to a disorder stemming from extensive prenatal exposure to alcohol. Children with this disorder typically suffer from problems in intellectual functioning, central nervous system dysfunction, cranial feature defects, behavior problems, growth retardation, and physical abnormalities of the face.

- Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) : Fetal alcohol syndrome refers to a condition affecting the children of mothers who consume large quantities of alcohol during pregnancy; it can involve learning disabilities, attentional
difficulties, and physical and emotional disability.

Fetal death is defined as death resulting from miscarriage, stillbirth, or spontaneous abortion.

Fetal distress refers to a condition in which a fetus has an abnormal heart rate or rhythm.

Fetal medicine is defined as the field of medicine concerned with treating pre-natal problems or problems before birth

Fetal monitoring is defined as the use of instruments to track the heart rate and oxygen levels of the fetus during childbirth.

Fetal stage is defined as the stage of development that lasts from the beginning of the ninth (9th) week of pregnancy through birth which is characterized by gains in size and weight and by maturation of the organ systems.

Fetal viability refers to the maturational age at which the fetus can survive outside the uterus.