multigravida

Multigravida refers to a woman who has been pregnant more than once. The term is used in obstetrics to describe a reproductive history rather than a medical condition. A multigravida may be currently pregnant as part of a history that includes several pregnancies, or her obstetric history may be summarized as G2, G3, and so on, with the current pregnancy counted in gravidity if applicable.

In common practice, gravidity denotes the total number of pregnancies a person has had, including the current one, while parity (para) indicates the number of pregnancies that have reached viability (with varying definitions, often around 20 or 28 weeks). For example, a woman with two pregnancies, one resulting in a live birth, is often described as G2P1. Primigravida refers to a first pregnancy; multigravida refers to two or more pregnancies. Grand multipara is a related term that typically denotes five or more pregnancies resulting in viable births, though thresholds can vary by source.

Clinical relevance: Multigravida status is a descriptive history used to assess risk and plan care. It can be associated with various obstetric risks that may be influenced by age, interpregnancy interval, prior obstetric events, and overall health. Some studies note higher rates of postpartum hemorrhage, placenta previa or accreta, malpresentation, and cesarean delivery with higher parity or prior uterine surgery, but outcomes vary with access to care and individual health. The term remains a neutral descriptor used in patient records and prenatal care planning. Related terms include primigravida and grand multipara.