PSYCHOLOGIC/EMOTIONAL ADAPTATIONS OF PREGNANCY Flashcards
1.1 Beginning the end of the first trimester there is a
this cause?
gradual increase of about 30% - 50% in the total cardiac volume, reaching its peak during the 6th month
This causes a drop in hemoglobin and hematocrit values
1.1.3 Systolic murmurs are common due to
lowered blood viscosity
1.1.1 Easily fatigability and shortness of breath because of
increased workload of the heart
stimulation during the first half of pregnancy
1.2.1 Sympathetic nervous system
1.3.1. Edema of the lower extremities occurs. Management :
legs above hip level. Important: Edema of the lower extremities is normal during pregnancy; it is not a sign of toxemia
1.3.2. Varicosities of the lower extremities can also occur Management:
Use/wear support hose or elastic stockings to promote venous flow, thus preventing stasis in lower extremities
Apply elastic bandage
1.4 Because of poor circulation in the blood vessels of the genitalia due to the pressure of the gravid uterus, varicosities of the vulva and rectum can occur MAnagement:
Management: side-lying position with hips elevated on pillow and modified knee-chest position.
Morningsickness and management:
nausea and vomiting during the first trimester is due to increased human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). It may also be due to increased acidity or even to emotional factors.
Management: Eat dry toast or crackers 30 minutes before arising in the morning (or dry, high carbohydrate, low fat, and low spices in the diet).
2.2 Hyperemesis gravidarum Management
excessive nausea and vomiting which persists beyond 3 months; results in dehydration, starvation, and acidosis. Management: D10NSS 300 ml in 24 hours is the priority treatment; complete bed rest is also important.
2.3 Constipation and flatulence are due to
displacement of the stomach and intestines, thus slowing peristalsis and gastric emptying time. May also be due to increased progesterone during pregnancy.
Management:
- Increase fluids and roughage in the diet
2.4 Hemorrhoids are due to pressure of enlarged uterus
Management: cold compress with witch hazel or Epsom salts.
2.5 Heartburn, especially during the last trimester, is due to
Managemnt:
increased progesterone which decreases gastric motility, thereby causing reverse peristaltic waves which lead to regurgitation of stomach contents through the cardiac sphincter into the esophagus, causing irritation.
2.5.6 Take antacids (e.g. milk of Magnesia) but never sodium bicarbonate (e.g. Alka Seltzer or baking soda) because it promotes fluid retention.
8.1 During the first trimester, weight gain of
1.5-3 lbs. is normal
8.2 On 2nd and 3rd trimesters, weight gain of
10-11 lbs.
8.3 Total allowable weight gain during entire period of pregnancy, therefore, is
20-25 pounds (10-12 kgs).
