XV: Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium

Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium encompasses a vast spectrum of conditions and complications that can occur during the period of pregnancy, at the time of delivery and during the postnatal period, also known as the puerperium. The period of pregnancy entails development and growth of the fetus inside the mother's womb, which might give rise to certain maternal conditions, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. Childbirth is the process of delivery of the fetus, which may lead to complications like obstructed labor or postpartum hemorrhage. The puerperium refers to the recovery period following childbirth when the woman's body returns to its non-pregnant state, during which complications like postpartum depression or mastitis can occur. These conditions are not communicable as they are unique to pregnancy and related processes. Symptoms vary greatly and can include physical discomfort, changes in mood, and problems with breastfeeding. Most of these conditions are temporary and resolve as the body recovers, but require close medical supervision.