What does the term "gravida" signify in obstetrics?

The term "gravida" refers specifically to the total number of times a woman has been pregnant, regardless of the outcome of those pregnancies. This includes all pregnancies—current, previous, and any that may have ended in miscarriage or abortion. It is a fundamental concept in obstetrics as it helps healthcare providers understand a woman's reproductive history. Knowing a woman's gravida status can assist in evaluating her healthcare needs and potential complications associated with pregnancy.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of "gravida": a woman's age during pregnancy relates to her age, the number of live births refers to a different term called "parity," and the duration of the last pregnancy would pertain to the gestational age or obstetric history, but not to gravida itself. Thus, the correct answer provides a precise understanding of what "gravida" signifies in an obstetric context.