What is the meaning of the prefix "post-" in medical terms?

The prefix "post-" in medical terminology signifies a concept of "after" or "following." It is commonly used to refer to conditions, procedures, or events that occur subsequent to a specified point in time. For example, in terms like "postoperative," it indicates the period after surgery, denoting actions or conditions that arise once the surgical procedure has been completed. Thus, when you encounter "post-" in various medical terms, it consistently conveys the meaning of something that occurs after a specific event or time frame, making it essential for understanding medical contexts related to timelines and sequences of care or treatment.