Intro & Histology Week 1 Flashcards
What’s Anatomy and why does a Midwife need to understand it?
Anatomy refers to the study of the body’s structures, like the uterus, pelvis, and fetal skull, examining how these structures are physically organized and interconnected.
A midwife needs knowledge of anatomy to understand the positioning of the fetus within the pelvis.. etc
What’s physiology and why is it important for a midwife to understand it?
Physiology focuses on how anatomical structures work to support bodily functions, such as uterine contractions during labor and the hormonal changes that facilitate pregnancy.
Physiology helps her understand how hormonal shifts initiate labor and affect maternal and fetal health.
List the 10 Organ Systems of the body:
Integumentary System
Skeletal System
Muscular System
Nervous System
Endocrine System
Cardiovascular System
Lymphatic and Immune System
Respiratory System
Digestive System
Urinary System
Briefly describe the integumentary system
This includes the skin, hair, and nails, which protect the body from external threats and help regulate temperature. In pregnancy, skin changes are common, such as stretch marks due to the expanding abdomen.
Briefly describe the skeletal system
The bones provide structure and support. For midwives, understanding the pelvis’s shape and flexibility is key, as it affects the birth process.
Briefly describe the muscular system
Muscles work with bones to create movement. Uterine muscles are vital in labor, as they contract to help deliver the baby.
Briefly describe the nervous system
The brain, spinal cord, and nerves control body functions. During birth, the nervous system helps the body respond to pain and contractions.
Briefly describe the endocrine system : This system’s ______ play a significant role in regulating _______, such as those that trigger ____ or support ______.
hormones ; bodily changes
labor or support lactation postpartum.
Briefly describe the cardiovascular system
The heart and blood vessels work harder during pregnancy to supply both the mother and baby with oxygen and nutrients, crucial for fetal development.
Briefly describe the lymphatic and Immune system
It defends the body against infections. During pregnancy, some immune responses are suppressed to protect the fetus.
Briefly describe the respiratory system
The lungs and airways provide oxygen to the body. As the uterus grows, it can press against the diaphragm, making breathing more challenging for pregnant women.
Briefly describe the digestive system
This system breaks down food for energy. Pregnancy hormones can slow digestion, leading to common issues like heartburn and constipation.
Briefly describe the urinary system
The kidneys and bladder adjust to handle the increased waste from both mother and fetus, and frequent urination is typical as the uterus presses on the bladder.
List 5 items that are essential to maintain life
oxygen, water, nutrients, temperature, and atmospheric pressure
Define Homeostasis
the body’s ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes
