Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

A benign tumor that is firm, round, and somewhat movable.  

Spontaneous contraction of individual muscle fibers no longer under control of a motor nerve. The fluttering of a muscle. Recurrent, involuntary, and abnormal muscular contraction in which a single or a small number of fibers act separately rather than as a coordinated unit, esp. in the heart, as in atrial or ventricular fibrillation. The primary…

A method used for the detection of fetal abnormalities in which the fetus can actually be seen consists of inserting a needle containing a fiber optic lens into the amniotic sac. An examination of a fetus inside the uterus, taking blood samples to diagnose blood disorders. A prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a flexible tube…

An inanimate object or objects upon which a person becomes fixated, and which becomes a necessary part of achieving sexual fulfillment. A condition in which sexual impulses become fixated on a symbol. The symbol may be used in conjunction with masturbation or interpersonal sexual activity. An object, such as an idol or charm, that is…

The stage of human development from the end of the 8th week of gestation until the time of birth.  

Two sacs of tissue, the inner amnion and the outer amnion, that encloses the developing fetus in the uterus. Collectively, the amnion, chorion, and umbilical cord (which includes the yolk stalk, allantois, and blood vessels), all of which function for the protection, nourishment, respiration, and excretion of the developing fetus. The placenta, of both fetal…

A form of dropsy in the new born caused by incompatibility between an Rh-negative mother and her Rh-positive fetus during pregnancy.  

The certificate required when a baby is born dead: a stillbirth. Most states in the United States regard stillbirths of less than 20 weeks of pregnancy as abortions and may or may not require registration of a birth.  

Hemoglobin within the fetal circulation that is carrying carbon monoxide.  

Uncoordinated, hurried, and uncertain walk in paralysis agitans. A gait in which short, shuffling steps are initially taken, with the feet barely clearing the floor. After several steps the walking pace becomes quicker and quicker. The upper body is flexed forward, and the head is bent toward the floor. The arms, elbows, hips, and knees…