Obs and Gynae Flashcards
(639 cards)
Name 3 hormones that are important in pregnancy
- hCG
- Progestins
- Oestrogens
- hPL, Prolactin, Oxytocin also important
Where is hCG produced?
The trophoblast
Give 2 functions of hCG
- It signals the presence of the blastocyst
2. It prevents the corpus luteum from dying (luteal regression)
Where are progestins produced?
Initially from the corpus luteum and then from the placenta from week 7
Give 3 functions fo progestins
- Prepares the endometrium for implantation
- Promotes myometrial quiescence
- Increases maternal ventilation
How do progestins prepare the endometrium for implantation?
Stimulate the proliferation of cells, vascularisation and the differentiation of endometrial stroma
Where are oestrogen produced?
Initially in the ovary and then from a combination of fetal and maternal sources
Give 2 functions of oestrogens in pregnancy
- Promotes uterine blood flow, myocetrial growth and cervical softening
- Increases sensitivity and expression of myocetrial oxytocin receptors
- Increases water renovation and protein synthesis
- Increases breast and nipple growth
- Promotes a change in the cardiovascular system
What is the main oestrogen in pregnancy?
E3 = indicates fetal wellbeing
What is the role of E2 in pregnancy?
Responsible for proliferation of the endometrial epithelium and it also facilitates progesterone action
What is the role of human placental lactose (hPL)?
- Mobilises glucose from fat
- Acts as an insulin antagonist
- Converts mammary glands into milk secreting tissues
Where is prolactin produced?
Anterior pituitary gland
What is the role of prolactin?
Responsible for milk production
Where is oxytocin produced?
Posterior pituitary gland
What is the role of oxytocin?
Responsible for uterine contractions and milk secretion
Where are FSH and LH produced?
Anterior pituitary gland
What is the main basis of the HPG axis?
Hypothalamus releases GnRH that acts on the anterior pituitary gland
Anterior pituitary release FSH and LH that act on the ovaries
Ovaries produce oestrogens and androgens
What cells in the ovaries does FSH act on?
Granuloma cells –> oestrogen production
What cells in the ovaries does LH act on?
Theca cells –> androgen production
What hormone inhibits prolactin release?
Dopamine (released from hypothalamus to act on anterior pituitary)
Are the changes that occur during pregnancy pathological or physiological?
Physiological changes occur in pregnancy –> resetting of normal physiological values
Give 2 characteristics of maternal physiological changes
- Anticipatory –> precede fetal demands and growth
- In excess of fetal requirements
- Dynamic –> inter-trimester variation
- All enhance placental exchange of nutrients and waste
What happens to maternal renal function in pregnancy?
- Kidneys increase in size (20%)
- Increase in renal blood flow –> increase in GFR (–> decreased plasma urea and creatinine)
- Increased creatinine clearance, glycosuria, aminoaciduria
- Increased UTI risk (progesterone reduced smooth muscle tone –> urinary statis)
What happens to maternal cardiac output in pregnancy?
Cardiac output, HR and stroke volume increase by 30-50%