PLACENTAL SOUFFLE Meaning and
Definition
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Placental souffle is a term used in medical and obstetrics to describe a specific phenomenon related to pregnancy. It refers to the sound generated by the blood flowing through the uterine arteries near the placenta. The placenta, an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, plays a crucial role in the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between the mother and fetus.
The placental souffle is typically audible through a stethoscope placed over the pregnant woman's abdominal area or lower back. The sound resembles a gentle, rhythmic, blowing noise, similar to the sound of the wind passing through trees. It is often described as a soft, rustling, or whooshing sound.
The placental souffle can be detected by healthcare professionals during routine prenatal visits and is considered a normal and reassuring sign that the placenta and uterine blood flow are functioning normally. The intensity of the sound may vary depending on factors such as the position of the placenta, the amount of blood flow, and the mother's body structure.
Doctors and midwives use the placental souffle as a diagnostic tool to evaluate the well-being of the placenta and the fetus. Its presence helps to confirm that the placenta is receiving an adequate blood supply. The absence of a placental souffle may warrant further investigation to ensure proper blood circulation.
Overall, the placental souffle is a physiological sound that healthcare professionals listen for during pregnancy to assess the normal functioning of the placenta and the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLACENTAL SOUFFLE
Etymology of PLACENTAL SOUFFLE
The term "placental souffle" is primarily composed of two words: "placental" and "souffle".
1. Placental: The word "placental" is derived from the Latin word "placenta", meaning "flat cake or pancake". It was originally used to refer to the organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy to nourish and provide oxygen to the fetus. The concept of "placental" in medical terminology refers to anything related to the placenta or its functions.
2. Souffle: The word "souffle" has its origins in French, where it means "breath" or "puff". In culinary terms, a souffle is a dish made with beaten egg whites which results in a light, fluffy, and puffed-up texture.
