Pregnancy Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is pregnancy?
The state of carrying a developing embryo or fetus within the uterus lasting about 40 weeks from the last menstrual period.
What is the average length of pregnancy?
Approximately 40 weeks or 9 months, divided into three trimesters.
What is the first sign of pregnancy?
A missed period is often the first sign, though symptoms like nausea
What hormone is detected in pregnancy tests?
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) produced by the placenta after implantation.
What are the three trimesters of pregnancy?
First trimester (weeks 1-12): Major organs begin developing. Second trimester (weeks 13-26): Growth accelerates movement felt. Third trimester (weeks 27-40): Rapid weight gain
When can a baby’s heartbeat be detected via ultrasound?
As early as 5-6 weeks with a transvaginal ultrasound.
When does quickening (first fetal movements) typically occur?
Between weeks 16-25 of pregnancy.
What causes morning sickness?
Increased levels of hCG and estrogen; nausea usually occurs in the first trimester but can last longer.
Why do pregnant women often feel fatigued?
Increased progesterone levels, increased blood volume
What are Braxton Hicks ?
Irregular painless contractions that prepare the uterus for labor
What is the linea nigra?
A dark vertical line that appears on the abdomen during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Why do some pregnant women develop stretch marks?
Rapid skin stretching and hormonal changes can lead to the breakdown of skin elasticity.
Why is folic acid important during pregnancy?
It helps prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida in the developing fetus.
How much weight should a woman gain during pregnancy?
Underweight: 28-40 lbs. Normal weight: 25-35 lbs. Overweight: 15-25 lbs.
Why is prenatal care important?
Regular checkups help monitor fetal growth and maternal health
What foods should be avoided during pregnancy?
Raw fish (sushi), unpasteurized dairy
Why is gestational diabetes a concern?
It can lead to high birth weight and preterm labor
What are the three stages of labor?
Stage 1: Cervical dilation and contractions.
Stage 2: Pushing and delivery of the baby.
Stage 3: Delivery of the placenta.
What is an epidural?
A pain relief method where anesthesia is injected into the lower back to numb labor pain.
What is a C-section?
A surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.
What is an Apgar score?
A test given to newborns at 1 and 5 minutes after birth to assess heart rate and breathing
What is the postpartum period?
The 6-week period after birth when the mother’s body recovers and adjusts hormonally.
What is colostrum?
The first milk produced after birth, rich in antibodies and nutrients for newborn immunity.
Why do some women experience postpartum depression?
Hormonal changes lack of sleep
