How Do You Spell AFTERBIRTH?

Pronunciation: [ˈaftəbˌɜːθ] (IPA)

The word "afterbirth" is spelled as /ˈæftərbɜːrθ/. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down the pronunciation of the word into individual sounds or phonemes. The first syllable is pronounced as "af" with the vowel sound /æ/. The second syllable is pronounced as "ter" with the consonant sound /t/ followed by the vowel sound /ɜː/. The final syllable is pronounced as "birth" with the consonant sound /b/ and the vowel sound /ɜː/. The spelling of the word reflects the combination of these sounds.

AFTERBIRTH Meaning and Definition

  1. Afterbirth is the term used to describe the placenta and other tissues that are expelled from the uterus after childbirth. It is also known as the postpartum or placental stage of labor.

    During pregnancy, the placenta provides important nutrients, oxygen, and hormones to the developing fetus, connecting it to the uterine wall. Once the baby is born, the contraction of the uterus helps to detach and expel the placenta, along with the other membranes and tissues that surrounded and supported the fetus during gestation.

    The afterbirth is typically delivered within a few minutes to an hour after the birth of the baby. It usually appears as a round, flat organ with a reddish-brown color, weighing around one to two pounds. The size, shape, and appearance of the afterbirth can vary between individuals.

    The expulsion of the afterbirth is a vital part of the birthing process, as it ensures that the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy state and helps prevent excess bleeding. Healthcare professionals carefully examine the afterbirth to ensure its intactness, as a retained placenta or fragments can lead to complications such as infection or postpartum hemorrhage.

    In summary, afterbirth refers to the placenta and associated tissues that are expelled from the uterus following childbirth. Its removal is necessary to complete the birthing process and maintain the mother's well-being.

Common Misspellings for AFTERBIRTH

Etymology of AFTERBIRTH

The word "afterbirth" is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "after" and "berth".

The term "after" in Old English meant "later in time", while "berth" referred to "a place where something is put or located".

Therefore, "afterbirth" originally referred to the placenta and other materials which are expelled from the uterus after the birth of a baby. The term highlights the fact that the placenta is discharged after the baby's delivery.

Similar spelling words for AFTERBIRTH

Plural form of AFTERBIRTH is AFTERBIRTHS

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