Changes in Female Reproductive System

Uterus Changes

• Length increases from 6.5 to 32 cm
• Depth increases from 2.5 to 22 cm
• Weight increases significantly, ranging from 50 to 1000 g
• Volume expands from 2 mL to over 1000 mL
• Wall thickness increases from 1 to 2 cm during the beginning of pregnancy
• Width expands from 4 to 24 cm

Cervical Changes

• Increased vascularity and fluid between cells
• Endocervix glands produce thick mucus (operculum) that blocks the cervical canal, preventing bacterial entry into the uterus

Vaginal Changes

• Walls soften and become more elastic
• pH shifts from 7 to 4 or 5, creating an acidic environment, which inhibits bacterial growth, however, may favor yeast infections like Candida albicans

Ovarian Cycle Changes

• Ovulation stops during pregnancy
• Corpus Luteum produces progesterone until the placenta takes over, sustaining hormones during the placenta's formation
• Corpus Albicans is the remnant or scar left after the corpus luteum regresses

Breast Changes

• Size increases due to glandular and fatty tissue growth
• Areola diameter increases
• Vascularity increases, making the areola darker due to increased blood flow
• Estrogen causes growth and development of breast tissue
• Montgomery Tubercles: Small bumps on the areola that secrete a lubricating substance
• Colostrum, a thin, yellowish fluid, is produced by the breasts during pregnancy

Integumentary System Changes

• Striae Gravidarum (stretch marks) occur as a result of skin stretching
• Linea Nigra, a dark line, develops from the pubic bone to the umbilicus
• Melasma ("Mask of Pregnancy"), brownish pigmentation on the face, is caused by increased estrogen levels
• Telangiectasia (Spider Angiomas) are tiny, branched blood vessels appearing on the skin
• Palmar Erythema is redness of the palms of the hands

Respiratory System Changes

• Increased Oxygen Consumption to meet fetal needs
• Increased Tidal Volume and Respiratory Rate to compensate for the increased oxygen demand
• Dyspnea may occur in later pregnancy stages due to the uterus pressing on the diaphragm
• Increased Sensitivity to Temperature Changes

Cardiovascular System Changes

• Increased Blood Volume to provide adequate blood flow to the placenta and fetus
• Increased Cardiac Output to accommodate the increased blood volume
• Heart Rate increases slightly
• Blood Pressure may decrease in the first trimester but usually returns to normal by the second trimester
• Supine Hypotension Syndrome: Compression of the inferior vena cava restricts blood flow from the lower extremities, potentially leading to dizziness or fainting while lying flat
• Increased Risk of Varicose Veins and Hemorrhoids due to the pressure of the uterus on the veins in the legs and rectum

Gastrointestinal System Changes

• Slower Peristalsis can lead to constipation
• Nausea and Vomiting are common in the first trimester
• Heartburn may occur as the uterus presses on the stomach
• Increased Appetite due to the increased metabolic demands of pregnancy
• Hemorrhoids can occur due to the pressure of the uterus on the veins in the rectum

Urinary System Changes

• Increased Frequency of Urination due to the pressure of the uterus on the bladder
• Increased Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) due to changes in the urinary system

Skeletal System Changes

• Ligament Relaxation to prepare the pelvic bones for childbirth
• Increased Lumbar Lordosis, a curvature of the lower spine
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome due to swelling in the hands and wrists
• Relaxin, a hormone produced by the ovary, relaxes pelvic joints and ligaments

Diagnosis of Pregnancy

Presumptive Signs

• Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
• Frequent urination
• Melasma ("Mask of Pregnancy")
• Breast changes
• Fatigue
• Striae gravidarum (stretch marks)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Linea nigra (dark line on abdomen)
• Quickening (fetal movement)

Probable Signs

• Laboratory Tests: Serum and urine tests positive for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)
• Evidence of a gestational sac on ultrasound
• Ballottement: Rebound of the fetus when the examiner taps the uterus
• Chadwick’s Sign: Bluish discoloration of the cervix and vagina due to increased blood flow
• Hegar’s Sign: Softening of the lower uterine segment
• Goodell’s Sign: Softening of the cervix
• Braxton Hicks Contractions: False labor contractions

Positive Signs

• Fetal Outline on Ultrasound
• Demonstration of Fetal Heartbeat Separate From Mother's
• Fetal Movement Felt by Examiner

Common Discomforts in Pregnancy and Nursing Interventions

• Breast Tenderness: Supportive bra, warm clothing, and avoiding cold drafts
• Constipation: Increased dietary fiber, water intake, and regular bowel movements
• Nausea and Vomiting: Small frequent meals, dry crackers before rising, and avoiding greasy foods
• Fatigue: Encourage rest and sleep
• Leg Cramps: Stretching and leg elevation
• Varicose Veins: Rest with legs elevated, support stockings, and exercise
• Hemorrhoids: Knee-chest position and cold compress
• Frequent Urination: Avoid restricting fluids and monitor for UTI signs
• Shortness of Breath: Elevate head while sleeping and limit activities
• Backache: Pelvic rocking exercises and proper posture
• Edema: Rest with legs elevated, avoid tight clothing, and reduce contributing factors
• Headache: Rest, cold compress, and prescribed analgesics
• Braxton Hicks Contractions: Changing positions, drinking water, and taking warm baths

Lightening

• The sensation of the baby "dropping" into the pelvis, usually occurring a few weeks before labor
• Reduces pressure on the diaphragm, but increases pressure on the bladder.

This quiz explores the significant anatomical and physiological changes that occur in the uterus, cervix, vagina, ovaries, and breasts during pregnancy. It covers details about size, weight, volume, hormonal changes, and more. Test your knowledge about these crucial adaptations in the female reproductive system.