Female Anatomy and Menopause Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the effect of estrogen on the cervix during the menstrual cycle?

Dilates the cervix and creates a watery, stretchy mucus (correct)

Closes the cervix and increases mucus consistency

Thickens the cervical mucus and shortens the menstrual cycle

Maintains a thick mucus plug preventing ovulation

What change occurs in cervical mucus secretion on the 16th day of the menstrual cycle?

Decreased amount of sticky, cloudy mucus (correct)

Increased production of clear, stretchy mucus

Production of a thinner, more liquid mucus

Complete cessation of mucus production

What is the primary function of the operculum during pregnancy?

Acts as a protective mucus plug for the cervix (correct)

Stimulates hormonal changes in the uterus

Facilitates cervical dilation during labor

Increases blood flow to the placenta

Which hormone primarily protects the pregnancy by relaxing the uterus?

Progesterone Signup and view all the answers

What occurs in the uterus during a normal contraction?

The shape of the uterus remains globular Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential symptom of placenta previa?

Painless bleeding in the last trimester Signup and view all the answers

What is the pathologic retraction ring in labor indicative of?

Overstretching of the uterus and possible obstruction Signup and view all the answers

How does progesterone affect cervical mucus production during the menstrual cycle?

Decreases mucus production and makes it sticky Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the breast during menopause that increases the risk of cancer?

Stop supply of hormones from the ovary Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the episiotomy during childbirth?

To prevent laceration Signup and view all the answers

Which type of incision is most commonly made during an episiotomy?

Mediolateral incision Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Doderlein’s bacillus in the vagina?

To protect against bacterial infection Signup and view all the answers

Why are pregnant women more at risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Hormonal changes affecting urine concentration Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of having a rigid hymen?

Difficulty with intercourse Signup and view all the answers

What are the symptoms of a Candida albicans infection?

Yellowish creamy discharge with no smell Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended behavior when inserting a catheter in relation to the clitoris?

Avoid touching to prevent convulsions Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate timing for inserting a vaginal suppository to treat candidiasis?

Nighttime while lying down Signup and view all the answers

How can Kegel's exercises benefit the vagina?

Promotes formation of ruggae Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Breast

Dependent on ovarian hormones; hormone supply stops during menopause, increasing cancer risk.

Mons Pubis and Labia

Mons pubis serves as a protective covering.
Labia major and minor are present; minora contains erectile tissue (clitoris).

Clitoris

Located anterior; key for catheterization procedures.
Care should be taken to avoid its stimulation during catheter insertion in preeclamptic patients to prevent convulsions.

Fourchette

Located behind the labia minora; stretches during childbirth.
Ritgen’s Maneuver provides perineal support to protect against overstretching.

Episiotomy

Prevents lacerations during delivery, ideally done at the contraction peak with anesthesia.
Two types:
- Mediolateral: less risk of extending to anus but affects multiple tissue layers.
- Median: used for immediate delivery, higher risk of anal extension.
Recommended after three strong contractions.

Vestibule

Triangular area containing two significant openings: urethra and vagina.
Total of six openings present.

Urethra

Short urethral canal increases UTI risk.
Recommended fluid intake: 8-10 glasses daily, with 50% as plain water.
Pregnant women face higher infection risks due to hormonal changes; progesterone lowers renal sugar threshold.

Vagina

Normal discharge is fleshy smelling; blood loss exceeding 2000 ml indicates shock.
Functions include copulation and acting as a birth passage with decreased resistance.
Contains ruggae (muscle folds) for stretchability; Kegel exercises improve ruggae formation.

Hymen

Stretching during vaginal expansion affects hymen integrity.
Conditions include:
- Imperforate hymen: leads to pseudoamenorrhea; requires surgical intervention.
- Rigid hymen: interferes with intercourse; also necessitates surgery.
Carunculae Myrtiformes are hymenal remnants post-tearing.

Doderlein’s Bacillus

Normal vaginal flora that prevents infections; contributes to vaginal acidity.
Common infections include:
- Candida albicans: presents as yellowish creamy discharge, thick consistency, and no distinct smell. Managed with Miconazole or Monistat for local treatment.
- Trichomonas vaginalis: produces a strong odor and greenish-gray frothy discharge.
- Gonorrheal and Chlamydial infections can affect the baby’s eyes.

Cervical Mucus

Produced by cervical glands; influenced by estrogen and progesterone.
Estrogen: leads to clear, stretchy mucus during ovulation.
Progesterone: results in thicker, sticky mucus post-ovulation.

Operculum

Mucus that plugs the cervix, protecting against infection during pregnancy; the "show" indicates cervical dilation.

Uterus

Estrogen stimulates muscle thickening; progesterone relaxes the uterus and supports pregnancy.
Upper segment (fundus): active muscle fibers ideal for placenta implantation.
Lower segment: passive with longitudinal muscles; maintains a globular shape during contractions.
Physiologic retraction ring indicates normal separation of uterus segments during labor.
Pathologic retraction ring (Bandle's ring) signifies obstruction and abnormal separation; may occur due to factors like a distended bladder or cephalopelvic disproportion.

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Description

This quiz covers important aspects of female anatomy, focusing on the breast and external genitalia. It also delves into hormonal dependency during menopause and related health implications. Ideal for students seeking to understand the physiological changes and reproductive health.