preparturient

Preparturient is an adjective used to describe the period or conditions immediately before parturition (birth). The term is used in both human obstetrics and veterinary medicine to denote late gestation as the body and offspring prepare for labor and delivery. Etymologically, it derives from Latin praee “before” and partus “birth.”

In human obstetrics, the preparturient phase refers to the final stage of pregnancy before labor begins. It is characterized by hormonal and physiological changes that prepare the uterus, cervix, and fetus for birth. The timing of this phase is highly variable and can range from days to hours before labor onset. Signs may include fetal engagement, cervical softening (ripening), and a general sense of preparation, though the onset of regular contractions with progressive cervical dilation signals the start of active labor.

In veterinary medicine, many species show distinct preparturient behavior and physical changes in the days or hours leading up to parturition. Common signs include nesting or restlessness, changes in feeding and activity, mammary development with colostrum formation, and abdominal changes or other species-specific cues. Care typically focuses on providing a safe, comfortable environment, monitoring for signs of imminent labor, and seeking veterinary assistance if labor does not progress or if complications arise.

See also: parturition, prepartum, dystocia.