Obstetric Terminology: Gravida, Para, and GTPAL Explained

Standard Nomenclature (GTPAL)

• G (Gravida): Total pregnancies (including current) = 6
• T (Term births): ≥37 weeks
• P (Preterm births): 20–36 6/7 weeks = 0 (PT 0)
• A (Abortions): Spontaneous or induced <20 weeks = 2 (A2)
• L (Living children): Currently alive = 3 (N3)

Interpretation

This woman has been pregnant 6 times. She has 3 living children (likely 3 term births), 2 pregnancy losses before 20 weeks, and no preterm deliveries. The current pregnancy may be included in G6 if ongoing.

Clinical Utility

• Rapid communication of obstetric history
• Risk stratification (grand multiparity ≥5, prior preterm, prior loss)
• Documentation standard

Note

"Pelvic thrust" is not standard terminology. The abbreviation "PT" in GTPAL refers to Preterm births, not pelvic thrust.