Physiological and Psychological Changes in Pregnancy

Questions and Answers

What specific change occurs in the uterus during early pregnancy as a result of hormonal influence?

Complete cessation of contractions

Reduction in uterine weight

Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of muscle fibers (correct)

Increased fibrous tissue growth only

Which sign is indicated by increased vascularity and results in a bluish discoloration of the cervix during pregnancy?

McDonald's sign

Chadwick's sign (correct)

Goodell's sign

Hegar's sign

What changes occur to the fallopian tubes and ovaries during early pregnancy?

Enlargement of the corpus luteum (correct)

Decrease in blood supply

Reduction in hormonal production

Permanent closure of the fallopian tubes

What characterizes the changes in the vaginal walls during pregnancy?

Hypertrophied, more vascular, and oedematous Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the isthmus of the uterus in the first trimester of pregnancy?

It hypertrophies and elongates up to three times its normal length Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a normal pregnancy?

Full-term duration typically between 37 to 42 weeks Signup and view all the answers

How is gestational age calculated?

From the first day of the last menstrual period Signup and view all the answers

What does the antepartum period encompass?

The time from conception to the onset of labor Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the physiological changes during pregnancy is true?

They involve adaptation to the fetus's demands Signup and view all the answers

How many trimesters is a typical pregnancy divided into?

Three trimesters Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration of the first trimester in a typical pregnancy?

From conception until the 12th week Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological system does NOT undergo significant changes during pregnancy?

Skeletal system Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected gestational age at which fetal growth is regarded normal?

By the end of 40 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What effect does progesterone have on the gastrointestinal system during pregnancy?

Decreases peristalsis and muscle tone in the GI tract Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of morning sickness in pregnant women?

Hormonal fluctuations Signup and view all the answers

How does the urinary system adapt during pregnancy?

Dilatation of ureters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the skin changes during pregnancy?

Higher melanin producing a condition called cloasma Signup and view all the answers

What physiological change occurs in the gall bladder during pregnancy?

Increased size and slower emptying Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of human placental lactogen (HPL) during pregnancy?

Increases insulin resistance Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms are associated with epulis in pregnant women?

Bleeding and sensitivity of gums Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is related to the increased abdominal pressure from a heavy uterus?

Flatulence due to gastric pressure Signup and view all the answers

What hormone is primarily responsible for the relaxation of ligaments and muscles during the later stages of pregnancy?

Relaxin Signup and view all the answers

Which metabolic change occurs during the second half of pregnancy regarding the basal metabolic rate (BMR)?

It increases by up to 30% Signup and view all the answers

What physiological change during pregnancy is characterized by a disproportionate increase in plasma and RBC volume, leading to lowered hemoglobin and haematocrit?

Physiological anemia Signup and view all the answers

What is the total recommended weight gain during pregnancy according to standard guidelines?

12 kg Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common emotion experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy?

Calmness Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors contributes to the risk of thrombosis and embolism during mid to late pregnancy?

Increased coagulation factors Signup and view all the answers

In which trimester is a pregnant individual likely to experience increased anxiety and impatience as common emotions?

Third Trimester Signup and view all the answers

What clinical manifestation is associated with Supine Hypotensive Syndrome in pregnant individuals?

Nausea and vomiting Signup and view all the answers

What causes the hyperventilation and shortness of breath experienced by pregnant individuals in late pregnancy?

Increased oxygen requirements Signup and view all the answers

Which psychological factor does NOT influence the psychosocial effects of pregnancy?

Favorite color Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary energy increase in daily caloric intake recommended during pregnancy?

300 k calories Signup and view all the answers

The relaxations of arterial walls during pregnancy are primarily influenced by which hormone?

Progesterone Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy?

Pain and paresthesia in the hands Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the changes in blood pressure by mid-pregnancy?

Decreased diastolic pressure and variable systolic pressure Signup and view all the answers

How does iron metabolism change during the last trimester of pregnancy?

Iron requirements increase significantly Signup and view all the answers

What physiological condition is characterized by hyperemic and edema of the respiratory tract mucosa in pregnant individuals?

Estrogen influence Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Learning Objectives

Define menstrual/gestational age, fertilization/ovulatory age, antepartum period, and normal pregnancy.
Explain physiological and psychological changes during normal pregnancy.

Normal Pregnancy

Characterized by typical physiological changes without significant complications.
Full-term duration ranges from 37 to 42 weeks, averaging 40 weeks.
Associated with normal fetal growth and maternal health.

Gestational Age

Calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP).
Example: 8 weeks pregnant means 8 weeks since LMP.

Antepartum Period

The duration of pregnancy from conception until the onset of labor.

Trimesters of Pregnancy

Divided into three trimesters:
- First Trimester: Up to 12 weeks
- Second Trimester: 13 to 28 weeks
- Third Trimester: 29 to 40 weeks

Physiological Changes During Pregnancy

Involves progressive anatomical and physiological adaptations to support fetal growth.
Changes influenced by hormones and external factors.

Reproductive System

External Genitalia: Edema and increased vascularity; pigmentation and varicosities in labia minora.
Internal Genitalia:
- Uterus increases from 60g to 900g; hypertrophy and hyperplasia under estrogen and progesterone.
- Increased uterine blood supply and changes in position leading to urinary frequency.
- Changes in isthmus and cervix include increased vascularity and softening.

Circulatory System

Blood volume increases by 30%; cardiac output rises to 5-7 liters/min.
Plasma volume increases by 50% leading to physiological anemia.
Hypercoagulability state increases risk for thrombosis.
Blood pressure variations occur throughout pregnancy, particularly lowering mid-pregnancy.

Respiratory System

Oxygen requirements increase by 20%.
Relaxation of pulmonary muscles; possible shortness of breath in late stages.

Gastro-Intestinal System

Common issues include gingival hypertrophy, heartburn, and constipation due to hormone-induced muscle relaxation.
Changes in taste and cravings, including pica.

Urinary System

Increased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal pelvis dilation.
Frequency increases, especially in early and late pregnancy, due to uterine pressure.

Integumentary System

Increased sweating and altered pigmentation, leading to conditions like chloasma and striae gravidarum.

Endocrine System

Enlargement of thyroid glands; insulin resistance increases due to human placental lactogen.

Musculo-Skeletal System

Ligaments relax, accommodating growth in pelvic capacity.

Nervous System

Risk of carpal tunnel syndrome due to median nerve compression.
Mood swings and potential psychosis, especially with family history.

Metabolic Changes

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) increases by 30% in later pregnancy.
Daily energy requirements increase by 300k calories.

Weight Gain and Water Metabolism

Average total weight gain is about 12 kg, with specific distribution over the trimesters.

Psychological Changes in Pregnancy

Influenced by factors like general health, age, emotional maturity, and socioeconomic status.
First Trimester: Shock and ambivalence.
Second Trimester: Calmness and anticipation as fetal movement is felt.
Third Trimester: Increased anxiety and readiness for childbirth.

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Description

Explore the physiological and psychological changes that occur during normal pregnancy. This quiz is designed to test your understanding of key concepts related to menstrual and gestational aspects. Perfect for nursing students and those interested in maternal health.