# obstetrics

/əbˈstɛtɹɪks/ (US) · /ɒbstˈɛtɹɪks/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obstetrics
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the area of medicine that focuses on pregnancy and the birth of babies. It covers the care of a woman and her child before, during, and just after birth.

For teachers: the branch of medicine and surgery concerned with childbirth and the care of women during pregnancy and the period immediately following delivery. Often paired with gynaecology as a combined medical specialty.

## Examples

- She decided to specialize in obstetrics after medical school.
- Advances in modern obstetrics have significantly reduced the risks associated with high-pressure pregnancies and complex deliveries.
- The hospital's department of obstetrics recently implemented new protocols to ensure that neonatal care begins the moment a high-risk pregnancy is identified by the screening team.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes a singular verb despite the 's' ending.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.