Chapter 13 - Anatomy And Physiology Of Pregnancy - ( Lecture Review ) Flashcards
(43 cards)
What are the expected maternal anatomic and physiologic adaptations to pregnancy?
Maternal adaptations affect all body systems due to hormonal changes and mechanical pressures from the enlarging uterus.
How do signs and symptoms of pregnancy relate to maternal anatomic and physiologic changes?
They result from hormonal influences and physical changes in organs, such as the uterus enlarging, increased blood volume, and changes in the cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine systems.
What are the different types of pregnancy tests and their appropriate use?
Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the earliest biochemical marker of pregnancy.
How are the signs and symptoms of pregnancy categorized as presumptive, probable, or positive?
Presumptive: Subjective changes experienced by the woman (e.g., amenorrhea, fatigue, breast changes).
Probable: Objective changes observed by an examiner (e.g., Hegar sign, ballottement, pregnancy tests).
Positive: Definite proof of pregnancy (e.g., fetal heart tones, ultrasound visualization).
What hormones stimulate the growth of the uterus during pregnancy?
Estrogen and progesterone stimulate uterine growth.
How does the uterus change in size, shape, and position during pregnancy?
The uterus undergoes hyperplasia (increase in cell number), hypertrophy (increase in cell size), and the development of the decidua.
At what point in pregnancy does the uterus reach the symphysis pubis? The umbilicus?
Symphysis pubis: Around 14 weeks
Umbilicus: Around 20-22 weeks
What is “lightening,” and when does it typically occur?
Lightening is when the fetus “drops” into the pelvis, typically around 38-40 weeks.
What is Hegar’s sign, and what does it indicate?
Hegar’s sign is the softening of the lower uterine segment, which is a probable sign of pregnancy.
What changes occur in uterine contractility after the 4th month of pregnancy?
Braxton Hicks contractions become noticeable but are not true labor contractions.
How does uteroplacental blood flow change during pregnancy?
It increases tenfold to support fetal growth.
What is ballottement, and when does it typically occur?
Ballottement is when a fetus bounces back when the cervix is pushed; it occurs at 16-18 weeks.
What is quickening, and when does it typically occur?
Quickening is the first recognition of fetal movement, typically occurring around 16-18 weeks.
What is Goodell’s sign, and what does it indicate?
Goodell’s sign is the softening of the cervix, which is a probable sign of pregnancy.
What is friability, and why is it significant in pregnancy?
Friability means the cervix is easily damaged, leading to spotting after exams or intercourse.
What is the operculum, and what is its function?
The operculum is the mucus plug that blocks the cervical canal to protect against infections.
Why does ovulation stop during pregnancy?
Ovulation is suppressed due to inhibition of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
What is Chadwick’s sign, and what does it indicate?
Chadwick’s sign is a violet-blue coloration of the vaginal mucosa and cervix, a probable sign of pregnancy.
What changes occur in vaginal discharge during pregnancy?
Leukorrhea, an increased white or slightly gray vaginal discharge, is normal.
How does pregnancy affect vaginal pH, and why is this important?
The pH decreases, which helps prevent infections but increases susceptibility to yeast infections.
What are common breast changes during pregnancy?
Fullness, heightened sensitivity, tingling, and heaviness.
What are Montgomery tubercles, and what is their function?
Montgomery tubercles are oil-producing glands around the areola that lubricate and protect the nipples.
What hormone stimulates milk duct proliferation?
Estrogen stimulates the growth and proliferation of milk ducts.
What hormone promotes the growth of mammary lobes?
Progesterone stimulates mammary lobe development.
