noun
- the placenta and fetal membranes expelled from the uterus after the birth of a baby or young animal
Usage: medical
Examples
- The veterinarian examined the mare’s afterbirth to ensure it was complete.
- Delivery of the afterbirth typically occurs within 30 minutes of birth.
- The midwife carefully inspected the afterbirth for any abnormalities.
- In some cultures, the afterbirth is buried in a ceremonial manner.
- The doctor explained that retained afterbirth can cause serious complications.
- Farm animals usually eat their afterbirth instinctively after giving birth.