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Puerperal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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puerperal

[หˆpjสŠษ™rpษ™rษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical term

The term 'puerperal' refers to the period following childbirth, particularly concerning the woman's health. This term is often used in medical contexts to describe conditions or complications that arise during the postpartum phase. It encompasses a variety of physical and psychological changes that a woman undergoes after giving birth. Puerperal conditions can include puerperal fever, which is an infection that occurs after delivery. Understanding this term is crucial for healthcare providers in managing postpartum care.

Synonyms

postnatal, postpartum.

Examples of usage

  • Puerperal infections can lead to serious complications.
  • The puerperal period requires careful monitoring.
  • She experienced puerperal depression after her delivery.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Context

  • Puerperal fever is a term that used to refer to infections that occurred after childbirth, which were a leading cause of maternal mortality until the advent of antibiotics.
  • The puerperium, lasting about six weeks after delivery, is the period during which the motherโ€™s body undergoes changes to return to its pre-pregnancy state.

Historical Development

  • In the early 19th century, doctors started recognizing puerperal conditions as significant health threats, which sparked advances in obstetric practices.
  • The establishment of antiseptic procedures in maternity wards significantly reduced puerperal fever rates, saving countless lives.

Psychological Aspects

  • The postpartum period can bring about emotional changes known as 'baby blues,' affecting a significant number of new mothers.
  • Postpartum depression can happen during the puerperal phase, characterized by feelings of sadness or anxiety that can last beyond a few weeks.

Cultural Insights

  • Many cultures have specific rituals and practices surrounding childbirth and the puerperal phase, celebrating the transition into motherhood.
  • In some societies, new mothers are often given special care and dietary practices aimed at supporting their recovery and enhancing bonding with their baby.

Literature

  • Various literary works discuss themes of motherhood and the transformative experiences during the puerperal phase, illustrating societal views on childbirth.
  • The portrayal of women in literature has evolved, with more narratives acknowledging the complexity of feelings and changes during and after pregnancy.

Origin of 'puerperal'

The word 'puerperal' originates from the Latin term 'puerperalis', which is derived from 'puerpera', meaning 'a woman in childbirth'. The Latin root 'puer' means 'boy' or 'child', coupled with 'parere', which means 'to give birth'. The term came into use in the clinical context to specifically address medical conditions associated with the postpartum period. Over the years, 'puerperal' has been used in various medical texts to describe a range of phenomena related to childbirth and the woman's subsequent physical and emotional state. Its usage is essential in obstetrics and gynecology, where understanding the complexities of the postpartum phase is critical for maternal health.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,591, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.