What does "gravida" refer to in obstetrics?

"Gravida" refers to the total number of pregnancies a woman has experienced, regardless of their outcome or duration. This includes all pregnancies, whether they ended in live births, stillbirths, or miscarriages. It is an important term in obstetrics as it helps healthcare providers understand a woman's reproductive history and assess any potential risks in her current pregnancy.

Understanding the concept of gravida allows for better prenatal care management by taking into account the woman's previous pregnancy experiences. The other choices do not accurately capture the full scope of what "gravida" means. One option limits the definition to past pregnancies only, which overlooks current and future considerations. Another choice suggests it refers solely to the current pregnancy, which is not aligned with the terminology. Lastly, the option regarding the capability of surviving outside the uterus pertains to viability rather than the total number of pregnancies, further affirming that the correct interpretation of gravida encompasses all past and present pregnancies.