Introduction

Applied anatomy and physiology for basic obstetric care is an entry to your studies, and is essential preparation for your practical skills training. Obstetric care refers to healthcare for women during pregnancy, labour and delivery, and their immediate postnatal care. It requires a good understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system. Anatomy is the study of the structures of the human body, i.e. the features of how the organs, tissues and body systems are constructed. Physiology, on the other hand, is the study of the coordinated functions of the organs, tissues and systems in the body.

In this study session, you will learn about the structures that make the external female genitalia and the internal reproductive organs.