lesson 1 Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are the discomforts of pregnancy in the first trimester?
Nausea and Vomiting, Urinary Frequency, Fatigue, Breast Tenderness, Increased Vaginal Discharge (Leukorrhea), Nasal Stuffiness and Nosebleed (Epistaxis), Palmar Erythema, Ptyalism, Hypotension, Heart Palpitation, Abdominal Discomforts
What are the discomforts of pregnancy in the second and third trimester?
Heartburn (Pyrosis), Constipation, Leg Cramps (Charley Horse), Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, Backache, Dyspnea, Ankle Edema, Braxton Hicks Contractions, Faintness, Flatulence, Difficulty Sleeping, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Headache, Pregnancy Stretch Marks
What causes nausea and vomiting in the first trimester?
Increased levels of HCG, changes in carbohydrate metabolism, emotional factors
What are self-care measures for nausea and vomiting?
Avoid odors or causative factors, eat dry crackers or toast before rising, try a BRAT diet, have small but frequent meals, sips of fluids throughout the day, avoid spicy, fried, greasy foods
What causes urinary frequency in pregnancy?
Pressure of the uterus on the bladder in both first and third trimesters
What are self-care measures for urinary frequency?
Increase fluid intake during the day, decrease fluid intake in the evening, avoid tight-fitting clothing, empty the bladder frequently, reduce caffeine
What causes fatigue in pregnancy?
Specific causative factors unknown, hormonal changes (progesterone), may be aggravated by nocturia due to urinary frequency, increased metabolic rate
What are self-care measures for fatigue?
Plan time for a nap or rest period daily, go to bed earlier, seek family support and assistance
What hormone levels cause breast tenderness during pregnancy?
Increased levels of estrogen & progesterone
Breast tenderness is a common symptom due to hormonal changes.
What causes increased vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) during pregnancy?
Hyperplasia of vaginal mucosa & increased production of mucus by the endocervical glands due to increased estrogen levels
This is a normal physiological change.
What are common symptoms associated with elevated estrogen levels?
- Nasal Stuffiness
- Nosebleed (Epistaxis)
- Palmar Erythema
- Ptyalism (excessive, often bitter salivation)
- Hypotension
- Heart Palpitation
These symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals.
What is a recommended practice for managing breast tenderness during pregnancy?
Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra
This can help alleviate discomfort.
Fill in the blank: Moderate exercise daily ______ your energy level.
boosts
Exercise is important for overall health during pregnancy.
What should be avoided to promote vaginal cleanliness during pregnancy?
Douching
Douching can disrupt the normal vaginal flora.
What is a recommended method to reduce nasal congestion?
Apply a warm, wet washcloth to your cheeks, eyes, and nose
This can help alleviate symptoms of congestion.
True or False: Women should sleep on their back during pregnancy.
False
Sleeping on the side is recommended to improve blood flow.
What should a woman do if she feels faint?
Sit with her head between her knees
This position helps increase blood flow to the brain.
What can help manage abdominal discomfort during pregnancy?
Avoid sharp turns or movements
Sudden movements can exacerbate discomfort.
What is a physiological reason for abdominal discomfort during pregnancy?
Circulatory adjustment necessary to accommodate increased blood supply
This adjustment can lead to discomfort.
