Human Reproduction and Pregnancy

Implantation and Ectopic Pregnancy

• Implantation of the fertilized ovum typically occurs in the fundus of the uterus.
• Ectopic pregnancy requires surgical removal of the zygote, as it occurs outside the uterine cavity.

Embryonic Development

• The embryonic stage of pregnancy lasts about 8 weeks, marking significant early development.

Teratogens

• German measles (rubella) during the first trimester can lead to birth defects, making it a serious concern for pregnant women.

Placenta Functions

• The placenta acts as an endocrine gland, secreting hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
• It serves as a barrier, protecting the fetus from most bacteria while still allowing some substances to pass.

Maternity Cycle and Estimated Date of Birth

• The intrapartal period spans the onset of labor to the delivery of the placenta.
• The estimated date of birth (EDB) is calculated by counting from the first day of the last menstrual period, subtracting three months and adding seven days.

Signs of Pregnancy

• A positive sign of pregnancy includes ultrasonic tracing of the fetus, while other signs such as Chadwick's and Goodell's are considered probable signs.

Urinary Frequency

• Increased urinary frequency in early pregnancy is attributed to increased circulating volume and pressure from the enlarging uterus on the bladder.
• In later pregnancy, urinary frequency may return due to the enlarged uterus compressing the bladder.

Sexual Activity and Pregnancy

• Sexual activity should cease if vaginal bleeding occurs until the cause is determined.

Obstetrical Terminology

• Gravida (G) indicates total pregnancies, Term (T) indicates term births, Abortion (A) indicates miscarriages, and Living (L) indicates living children.

Fetal Movement and Heart Tone

• First fetal movements (quickening) can be felt between 16-18 weeks of gestation.
• The fetal heart tone can be detected with an amplified stethoscope around 16 weeks.

Maternal Immunity Transfer

• Maternal antibodies transferred to the baby provide immunity for up to 6 months post-birth.

Morning Sickness Remedies

• Eating dry crackers before getting up may alleviate morning sickness.

Hemoglobin Levels

• An increase in maternal circulating volume during pregnancy can result in a relative decrease in hemoglobin levels.

Chloasma Management

• To reduce chloasma (skin pigmentation changes), pregnant women should avoid sun exposure.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

• A well-balanced diet should include more leafy green vegetables and fruits, emphasizing dietary roughage.

Danger Signals

• Vaginal bleeding during any time in pregnancy is a cause for immediate medical consultation.

Umbilical Cord Arteries

• The umbilical cord carries deoxygenated blood back to the placenta via its arteries.

Fundal Height Measurement

• Accurate measurement of fundal height requires the bladder to be emptied beforehand.

Amniocentesis

• Amniocentesis is a procedure used to determine the sex, maturity, health, and genetic defects of the fetus.

Placenta Structure

• The fetal side of the placenta is known as "Shiny Schultz," while the maternal side is referred to as "Dirty Duncan."

Fetal Membranes

• The chorion and the amnion make up the fetal membranes, important for fetal development.

Fundal Height at 30 Weeks

• Fundal height in centimeters typically equals the gestational age in weeks; thus, at 30 weeks, it would measure 30 centimeters.

Non-Stress Test

• A reactive non-stress test shows an increase of at least 15 beats per minute in the fetal heart rate upon stimulation.

Test your knowledge on human reproduction, including implantation, ectopic pregnancy, and embryonic development. This quiz covers the functions of the placenta, the impact of teratogens, and important aspects of the maternity cycle. Prepare to dive into the fascinating process of human gestation and birth!