glossary

decidua

Definition decidua

decidua hol

decidua n. the modified mucous membrane that lines the wall of the uterus (womb) during pregnancy and is shed with the afterbirth at parturition (see endometrium). There are three regions: the decidua capsularis, a thin layer that covers the embryo; the decidua basalis, where the embryo is attached; and the decidua parietallis, which is not in contact with the embryo. -decidual adj.