Physiologic & Psychosocial Adaptation during Pregnancy
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Questions and Answers

What causes the slight decrease in blood pressure during the first two trimesters of pregnancy?

  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased vascular resistance
  • Peripheral vasodilation from progesterone (correct)
  • Decreased blood volume
  • What percentage does plasma volume increase during the 32nd week of pregnancy?

  • 50-60%
  • 30-40%
  • 40-50% (correct)
  • 20-30%
  • What condition may occur if a pregnant woman lies supine due to uterine weight?

  • Supine hypotension syndrome (correct)
  • Supine vascular obstruction syndrome
  • Supine venous compression syndrome
  • Supine respiratory distress syndrome
  • How much does blood pressure typically drop during the first two trimesters of pregnancy?

    <p>5-10 mmHg (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hematologic change is typically observed during pregnancy due to hemodilution?

    <p>Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary aims of physiological changes during pregnancy?

    <p>To support and nourish the fetus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the normal change in size of the uterus during pregnancy compared to its non-pregnant size?

    <p>Increases to 20 times its size (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is NOT primarily involved in the physiological changes during pregnancy?

    <p>Oxytocin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological change occurs in the uterine wall thickness during the first trimester of pregnancy?

    <p>Increases from 8mm to 25mm (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What position does the uterus take after the first trimester of pregnancy?

    <p>Ascends into the abdomen (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common reason for urinary incontinence during pregnancy?

    <p>Increased blood flow to the kidneys (C), Relaxation of smooth muscle due to progesterone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trimester is associated with improvement in urinary-related symptoms?

    <p>Second trimester (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an advised action to manage edema in pregnant women?

    <p>Elevate the legs while resting (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be limited to manage urinary frequency during pregnancy?

    <p>Intake of caffeinated beverages (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is NOT typically associated with mild kidney-related discomfort during pregnancy?

    <p>Cramps in legs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of pregnant women experience ankle swelling?

    <p>80% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should a woman consult a doctor regarding constipation during pregnancy?

    <p>In case of severe constipation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What exercise is recommended to enhance urinary control during pregnancy?

    <p>Kegel exercises (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is primarily causing heartburn in pregnant women?

    <p>Relaxation of the cardiac sphincter (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is likely NOT a cause of constipation in pregnant women?

    <p>High consumption of fiber (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advice should be followed to help manage heartburn during pregnancy?

    <p>Consume small and frequent meals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptoms should be assessed when evaluating heartburn?

    <p>Time of discomfort after eating (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended daily fluid intake for managing constipation during pregnancy?

    <p>8-12 cups of fluid (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided to reduce the risk of heartburn?

    <p>Consuming spicy food (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which lifestyle change would best help in managing constipation during pregnancy?

    <p>Engage in regular physical activity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended practice after eating to manage heartburn effectively?

    <p>Sit or walk for 1-2 hours after eating (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common cause of backache during pregnancy?

    <p>Shifting of center of gravity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When may haemorrhoids subside after delivery?

    <p>A few months after delivery (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an advised posture-related recommendation for managing backache?

    <p>Maintain correct posture (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided to manage back discomfort?

    <p>Wearing high-heeled shoes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a typical characteristic of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy?

    <p>Commonly presents after delivery (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does relaxin play during pregnancy?

    <p>Loosens ligaments (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a recommended strategy for back pain relief?

    <p>Self-administering analgesics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of footwear is recommended for managing back pain during pregnancy?

    <p>Low-heeled shoes with good arch support (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these actions is suggested to alleviate pelvic and pubic joint pain?

    <p>Keeping good postures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a beneficial exercise to relieve back pain during pregnancy?

    <p>Pelvic tilt exercises (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one effective method to manage leg cramping during pregnancy?

    <p>Stretching the calf muscles regularly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes leucorrhoea during pregnancy?

    <p>It is an increase in vaginal discharge that is clear or white. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a hallmark physical change of the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy?

    <p>Postural changes leading to backache (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a recommended management for managing pelvic pain?

    <p>Lifting heavy objects to strengthen muscles (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should one manage dehydration as a cause of leg cramps?

    <p>Drink adequate fluids (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one physiological change in the respiratory system during pregnancy?

    <p>Increased lung capacity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What measure should be taken if leg cramps persist despite management strategies?

    <p>Consult a healthcare professional (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common symptom associated with pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy?

    <p>Difficulty walking or performing daily activities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects management advice for leucorrhoea?

    <p>Wearing cotton underwear can help prevention. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a psychological change observed during the third trimester of pregnancy?

    <p>Increased anxiety and concerns (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Physiological Changes in Pregnancy

    Significant bodily changes during pregnancy, impacting various organ systems, primarily driven by hormonal shifts, fetal growth, and maternal adaptation.

    Uterus Enlargement

    The uterus increases significantly in size, weight and capacity during pregnancy to accommodate the growing fetus, placenta, and amniotic fluid.

    Uterine Blood Supply

    The blood supply to the uterus greatly increases during pregnancy to support the growing fetus and other pregnancy-related changes.

    Uterine Shape Change

    The shape of the uterus changes from a pear shape to an ovoid shape during pregnancy.

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    Uterine Wall Thickness

    The thickness of the uterine wall changes during pregnancy, increasing to support the growing fetus.

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    Blood pressure during pregnancy

    Slight decrease in the first two trimesters, gradually increasing to pre-pregnancy levels by term. Caused by peripheral vasodilation from progesterone.

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    Physiologic anemia in pregnancy

    Increased plasma volume (40-50%) during pregnancy but red blood cell volume increases less (20-30%). This causes lower hemoglobin and hematocrit (mild anemia).

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    Supine hypotension syndrome

    Lying on back during pregnancy can reduce blood flow (up to 80%) due to weight of uterus pressing on major blood vessels.

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    Changes in white blood cells in pregnancy

    Slight increase in white blood cells (especially neutrophils) during pregnancy.

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    Changes in clotting factors in pregnancy

    Slight decrease in platelets, but increased fibrin, plasma fibrinogen, and other clotting factors during pregnancy.

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    Heartburn in Pregnancy

    Regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest.

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    Heartburn Cause

    Increased progesterone relaxes the esophageal sphincter and slows stomach emptying.

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    Heartburn Worsening Factors

    Pregnancy progress (enlarged uterus pushing on stomach) and diet/stress.

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    Heartburn Management - Diet

    Small, frequent meals, avoid large/late meals, fatty/spicy/caffeinated foods, and lying down after eating.

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    Constipation in Pregnancy

    Difficulty passing stool due to changes in intestinal muscle tone.

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    Constipation Cause

    Progesterone lowers colon muscle tone, and estrogen increases water absorption in the intestines.

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    Constipation Management - Fluids

    Drink plenty of fluids (water, milk, juice, soup), especially warm or hot fluids, to soften stools.

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    Constipation Management - Fiber

    Increase dietary fiber intake (e.g., whole grains, fruits, vegetables) to promote better bowel movements.

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    Pregnancy and Urinary Frequency

    Increased urination during pregnancy is common, primarily due to increased blood flow to the kidneys and the relaxation effect of progesterone on the bladder muscles. This is most noticeable in the 1st and 3rd trimesters.

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    Urinary Frequency: 1st Trimester

    The growing uterus can directly compress the bladder, leading to increased urinary frequency and urgency in the first trimester.

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    Urinary Frequency: 2nd Trimester

    Urinary frequency often improves in the 2nd trimester as the uterus rises out of the pelvis.

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    Urinary Frequency: 3rd Trimester

    Urinary frequency can return in the 3rd trimester as the baby's head descends into the pelvis and again presses on the bladder.

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    Managing Urinary Frequency

    Reassuring the mother about the temporary nature of the symptom is important. Regularly assessing for urinary tract infection and gestational diabetes is crucial.

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    Tips for Managing Urinary Frequency

    Reducing fluid intake a few hours before bedtime, limiting caffeine, and performing Kegel exercises can help improve urinary control.

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    Pregnancy and Ankle Swelling

    Ankle swelling is common during pregnancy (around 80%), primarily due to hormonal changes and increased water retention.

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    Managing Ankle Swelling

    Reassurance is essential, as ankle swelling is usually a normal pregnancy symptom. It's crucial to watch for generalized edema and rule out potential complications.

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    What causes backache during pregnancy?

    Backache in pregnancy is common, especially in the second and third trimesters. It's caused by shifting weight due to the growing uterus, increased joint laxity from hormones like progesterone and relaxin, poor posture, and pre-existing back pain conditions.

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    How to manage backache in pregnancy?

    To manage backache, maintaining correct posture, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, using supportive pillows, practicing back stretches and pelvic tilts, wearing comfortable shoes, and using proper lifting techniques are key. Warm compresses can help with pain. Consult a professional if necessary.

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    What is an abdominal girdle?

    An abdominal girdle is a supportive garment worn during pregnancy. It helps to alleviate back pain by providing additional support to the abdomen and lower back.

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    Why is pelvic tilt exercise helpful?

    Pelvic tilt exercises strengthen the muscles that support the back and pelvis, helping to alleviate back pain and improve posture.

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    What is pelvic girdle pain?

    Pelvic girdle pain is pain in the joints of the pelvis, particularly the sacroiliac and pubic joints. This pain is often experienced in late pregnancy and may persist after delivery.

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    What causes pelvic girdle pain?

    Pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy is caused by hormonal changes, primarily the relaxin hormone. Relaxin loosens the ligaments in the pelvis, making the joints more flexible but prone to pain.

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    How to manage pelvic girdle pain?

    Managing pelvic girdle pain involves maintaining good posture, avoiding movements that increase pain in the pelvis and pubic joints, and seeking professional guidance for pain relief.

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    When does pelvic girdle pain usually occur?

    Pelvic girdle pain often starts in the later stages of pregnancy and may continue even after delivery. This is due to the lingering effects of hormone changes and the stresses on the pelvic joints.

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    What is a normal symptom during pregnancy?

    Minor discomforts like backache and pelvic girdle pain are normal during pregnancy and are often resolved after delivery.

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    What should you do if you experience significant discomfort?

    If you experience severe pain, seek professional advice from a healthcare provider. They can assess the cause and suggest appropriate management strategies.

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    Leg Cramps in Pregnancy

    Painful muscle spasms in the legs, often occurring at rest or during sleep.

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    Cause of Leg Cramps

    Leg cramps can be caused by muscle tightness, low calcium or potassium levels, dehydration, and stress.

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    Managing Leg Cramps

    Strategies to relieve leg cramps include stretching calf muscles, regular exercise, using pillows for support, gentle massage, and staying hydrated.

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    Leucorrhoea

    Increased vaginal discharge, usually clear or white and not foul-smelling, common during pregnancy.

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    Cause of Leucorrhoea

    Hormonal changes during pregnancy, specifically increased estrogen levels, lead to increased vaginal mucus production and acidity, predisposing women to vaginal candidiasis.

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    Managing Leucorrhoea

    Reassurance that it's a normal pregnancy change, but assessment for infection is important. Advice includes keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding douching and tampons, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and consulting a doctor if the discharge is smelly or has blood.

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    Causes of Heartburn in Pregnancy

    Increased progesterone levels relax the esophageal sphincter, and slower stomach emptying due to pregnancy hormones contribute to heartburn.

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    Managing Heartburn in Pregnancy

    Strategies include eating small, frequent meals, avoiding large or spicy foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding lying down right after eating.

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    Study Notes

    Physiologic & Psychosocial Adaptation during Pregnancy

    • This lecture covers physiological and psychosocial changes during pregnancy.
    • Learning outcomes include describing maternal physiological, emotional, and psychological changes, and pregnancy-induced discomforts along with nursing management.
    • Pregnancy causes profound physiological changes in almost every organ system.
    • These changes are necessary to support and nourish the fetus, prepare the mother for childbirth, and preparation for lactation.
    • Physiological changes are mainly due to hormonal influences (estrogen and progesterone) and fetal growth.

    Reproductive System

    • Uterus:
      • Size increases significantly, approximately 20 times its non-pregnant size.
      • Weight increases from 60g to 1100g.
      • Capacity increases from 10ml to 5000ml.
      • Blood supply increases.
      • Shape transitions from pear-shaped to ovoid.
      • Ascends into the abdominal cavity after the first trimester.
      • Uterine wall thickness is 8mm at 12 weeks and 10mm at term during the pregnancy,
      • Traditional method to assess gestational age is based on fundal height.
      • Braxton Hicks contractions start around the 20th week, promoting blood circulation to the placenta.
      • Isthmus of uterus forms the lower uterine segment from 26-32 weeks
    • Cervix:
      • Vascularity increases (Chadwick's sign).
      • Softening occurs (Goodell's sign).
      • Mucus plug forms in the cervical canal to protect the fetus.
      • "Show" occurs as cervix begins to dilate, often accompanied by slight bleeding.
    • Vagina:
      • Vascularity increases due to estrogen.
      • Vaginal secretions increase, becoming more acidic.
      • Risk of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) increases due to higher estrogen levels. This often presents with itching, irritation, and erythema.
    • Ovaries:
      • Ovulation ceases during pregnancy due to increased estrogen and progesterone levels.
      • Corpus luteum secretes estrogen and progesterone during the first 6-8 weeks until placenta development.

    Breasts

    • Weight increases by 500-800g.
    • Tenderness is common.
    • Glandular tissue and ducts grow.
    • Nipples and areola darken.
    • Increased blood flow to breasts, with visible dilated veins.
    • Montgomery's tubercles become prominent in the third trimester.
    • Colostrum (creamy, yellowish fluid) is produced, providing nourishment for the newborn during the first few days.

    Cardiovascular System

    • Profound but reversible changes to the cardiovascular system.
    • Cardiac output increases by 20% at 8 weeks and continues to increase to 50% above baseline at 32 weeks.
    • Stroke volume rises by 30% in late pregnancy,
    • Maternal heart rate increases by 15 to 20 beats per minute.
    • Blood pressure may slightly decrease in the first two trimesters but gradually increases to pre-pregnant levels at term, due to peripheral vasodilation from progesterone.
    • Hemodynamics show physiological anemia, with plasma volume increasing 40-50% at 32 weeks but red blood cell volume increasing only 20-30%.
    • This results in mild white blood cell increase and slight increase in plasma fibrinogen, platelets, and other clotting factors.
    • Supine hypotension syndrome is a concern due to the weight of the uterus potentially compressing the inferior vena cava, reducing blood flow and impacting fetal oxygen supply.

    Respiratory System

    • Generalized vasodilation and edema increase mucosal edema and nasal congestion, this may result in epistaxis.
    • Oxygen consumption increases by 20-30% due to fetal needs.
    • Lung volume increases in the third trimester due to elevation of the diaphragm by roughly 4cm.
    • Pregnant women have a higher risk of hypoxia, hyperventilation, and dyspnea.
    • Compensatory mechanisms include relaxation of thoracic muscles, widening of the chest circumference, and decreased airway resistance for breathing.

    Gastrointestinal System

    • Mouth:
      • Gums may swell due to estrogen, increasing the risk of gingivitis.
      • Saliva production increases, and taste may change.
    • Oesophagus:
      • Progesterone relaxes the cardiac sphincter, leading to reflux of gastric contents.
      • Heartburn is a common complaint.
    • Stomach:
      • Progesterone decreases gastric acid production.
    • Intestines:
      • Progesterone reduces intestinal motility, leading to constipation.
      • Increased pressure on the intestines from the growing uterus further contributes to this.
      • Haemorrhoids are prevalent

    Integumentary System

    • Hyperpigmentation: Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) increases, causing linea nigra (dark line from the symphysis pubis to umbilicus) pigmentation, chloasma (pigment on the face), and pigmentation of areola and vulva.
    • Striae gravidarum: Stretching of the skin results in bluish-pink lines (stretch marks) on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. This is most notable during weeks 6-7.

    Musculoskeletal System

    • Pelvic ligaments soften and stretch due to progesterone and relaxin.
    • Pelvic and pubic joints loosen, potentially leading to a "waddling gait."
    • Pelvic girdle pain frequently arises in the advanced stages of pregnancy.
    • Lordosis, an increased curvature of the spine, compensates for the shift in the center of gravity.
    • Leg cramps may occur due to calcium, potassium, electrolyte imbalances, or dehydration.

    Renal System/Urinary System

    • Blood flow to the kidneys increase by 50-80%.
    • Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) also increases by 50%.
    • Increased urine flow and volume ensue.
    • Increased micturition frequency results from urinary bladder compression.

    Endocrine System

    • Placenta:
      • Produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to prevent corpus luteum involution and potentially spontaneous abortion
      • Human placental lactogen (hPL) is released to support fetal nutrition by increasing maternal glucose levels and mobilizing maternal fatty acid stores. Relaxin is produced for muscle, ligaments, and joint relaxation.
    • Progesterone: Prevents uterine contractions.
    • Estrogen: Promotes uterine lining and breast development and growth.
    • Thyroid and Pituitary: Thyroid enlarges and basal metabolic rate increases, while pituitary gland activity rises and produces prolactin (breast development), MSH (skin pigmentation), and oxytocin (uterine contractions).

    Psychological Changes

    • Hormonal changes significantly influence emotional fluctuations during pregnancy.
    • First trimester often includes emotional lability, uncertainty, and anxiety about pregnancy, miscarriage, or childbirth.
    • Second trimester often brings more emotional stability and growing excitement about the pregnancy & increased confidence.
    • Third trimester sometimes features heightened anxiety about childbirth, health of the baby, and worries around labor.

    Common Pregnancy-Induced Discomforts & Nursing Management

    • Discomforts are due to rapid hormonal changes (estrogen, progesterone, relaxin, prolactin).
    • Most discomforts resolve after delivery.
    • Nursing management focuses on symptom improvement and minimizing risk to mother and fetus. Reassurance, assessment, and proper advice concerning diet, posture, exercise.

    Minor Discomfort Details (Examples)

    • Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness): Affects 70-80% of pregnant women. Causes are often unknown; possibly related to hCG, estrogen, hypoglycemia and tiredness, but resolves by the end of the first trimester.
    • Heartburn: Affects 70% of pregnant women. Caused by progesterone relaxing the esophageal sphincter, leading to gastric acid reflux. Often worsens as pregnancy progresses.
    • Constipation: Affects 10-40% of women. Due to progesterone reducing intestinal motility & estrogen increasing water reabsorption, leading to decreased bowel movements and harder stools.
    • Urinary frequency and incontinence: Increased blood flow to kidneys and progesterone's effect on urinary tract smooth muscle increase urinary frequency and possible incontinence; less prominent during 2nd trimester.
    • Edema: Swelling in the extremities, especially ankles. Caused by water retention from rising estrogen levels.
    • Dizziness: Lightheadedness, weakness, fainting. Often caused by blood pooling in the legs from dilated blood vessels due to progesterone or orthostatic hypotension.
    • Backache: Very common in later stages. Caused by shifted center of gravity (enlarged uterus) and joint laxity from progesterone and relaxin.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the physiological and psychosocial adaptations that occur during pregnancy. You will learn about the significant changes in the maternal body, emotional adjustments, and how these impact nursing management. Understand the profound physiological alterations necessary for fetal nourishment and childbirth preparation.

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