problems in pregnancy Flashcards
(18 cards)
What percentage of women experience nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy?
75%
Nausea and vomiting are often related to a rapid rise in β-hCG.
What condition is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that may require hospitalization?
Hyperemesis gravidarum
It may lead to weight loss, metabolic disturbance, and dehydration.
What are some other causes of vomiting during pregnancy that should be investigated?
- Pyelonephritis
- Appendicitis
- Cholecystitis
- Bowel obstruction
- Raised intracranial pressure
Hyperemesis is a diagnosis of exclusion.
What is a significant indicator that may require hospital admission in cases of hyperemesis gravidarum?
Significant dehydration or the presence of ketonuria
Ketonuria indicates fatty acid breakdown.
What are some interventions to improve nausea and fatigue during pregnancy?
- Modification of working patterns
- Exercise
- Daytime sleeps
- Earlier bedtime
Evidence supporting these interventions is weak.
What dietary modification has been shown to have no proven efficacy in managing nausea during pregnancy?
Diet modification
Management should be individualized.
What should be included in the management of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?
- Interventions to reduce nausea, retching, and vomiting
- Management of associated gastric dysmotility
- Maintenance of hydration
- Fluid and electrolyte replacement
- Adequate nutrition including vitamin supplements
- Psychosocial monitoring and support
Monitoring for side effects and adverse outcomes is also important.
What is a common symptom related to breast changes during the first trimester?
Breast tenderness
Increased vascularity and growth of secretory elements contribute to this symptom.
What causes constipation during pregnancy?
Relaxation of intestinal smooth muscle due to progesterone
Bowel function usually improves as pregnancy progresses.
What is a common treatment for heartburn during pregnancy?
Antacids and elevation of the head of the bed
Symptoms may worsen due to pressure from the enlarging uterus.
What is the normal characteristic of cervicovaginal secretions during pregnancy?
Clear or cream in color and non-irritant
Candida is common and can be treated with local antifungal preparations if symptomatic.
What is the recommended action if sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are detected during pregnancy?
They should be treated
Untreated STIs increase the risk of preterm birth and transmission to the baby.
What is a common cause of back and pelvic pain during the third trimester?
Change in weight accentuating lumbar lordosis
This puts stress on sacroiliac joints and associated ligaments.
What are painful cramps of leg and feet muscles during pregnancy associated with?
They are self-limiting and have no association with calcium deficiency
Palmar numbness may occur due to oedema within the carpal tunnel.
What causes varicose veins during pregnancy?
Decline in venous tone and pressure from the gravid uterus
Varicose veins can be relieved by elevation and support stockings.
What is a common issue that may first appear in pregnancy due to increased pressure on pelvic vessels?
Haemorrhoids
Keeping stools soft and applying analgesic ointment can help.
What condition can cause swollen ankles in late pregnancy?
Venous congestion of the lower limbs
Mild swelling occurs in approximately 50% of women.
What should alert a clinician regarding swollen ankles during pregnancy?
Onset before 34 weeks or severe oedema, particularly in the hands or face
This may indicate preeclampsia.
