What does the term 'gravidity' refer to?

The term 'gravidity' specifically refers to the total number of pregnancies a woman has had, regardless of the outcome, including the current pregnancy. This encompasses all pregnancies, including live births, stillbirths, and miscarriages. Understanding this term is essential in the context of obstetrics and gynecology, as it helps health care providers assess a patient’s reproductive history and manage care appropriately.

Other terms are often confused with gravidity, such as 'parity,' which denotes the number of pregnancies that have resulted in viable offspring. Clarifying these terms helps in fostering a better understanding of a patient’s reproductive status and facilitates appropriate clinical responses.