Obstetric Patho Flashcards
Why is fatigue a symptom throughout all trimesters of pregnancy?
This is because energy is diverted to support the growing fetus and maternal physiological changes such as increased blood volume and vascular changes
When does morning sickness usually occur during pregnancy?
Typically occurs from weeks 3 to 12
Why might nausea/vomiting have a protective nature during pregnancy?
They could have a protective role against exposure to harsh chemicals and smells
What hormone is correlated to morning sickness?
High levels of human chorionic gonadotropin
What hormones lead to acid reflux and heart burn during pregnancy and why?
Progesterone and relaxin because they relax muscles such as the lower esophageal sphincter
Why is gastroesophogal reflux exacerbated during pregnancy?
Because of the physical, hormonal, and pressure changes from the growing fetus
Why do hormonal changes during pregnancy slow GI motility and cause constipation
To enhance nutrient absorption for the fetus
What factors contribute to polyuria during pregnancy?
- increased waste product like ammonia
- hormones
- pressure from fetus on the bladder
Vaginal discharge is considered normal unless…
- pain
- found smell
- unusual colours like green (infection)
Why is dizziness a common pregnancy symptom
Because of increased body volume and relaxed vasculature
What is a spontaneous abortion? what is this often due to?
Expulsion of pregnancy tissue before fetal viability, often due to chromosomal and fetal developmental abnormalities
What are the S/S of spontaneous abortion
Vaginal bleeding and abdo pain
What is blighted ovum, what is it also known as?
A type of pregnancy where fertilization occurs but the zygote does not develop into an embryo.
- known as endometrial pregnancy
what is blighted ovum often due to?
Faulty implantation or an in hospital uterine involvement
What is the difference between a threatened abortion and spontaneous abortion?
Threatened: abdo pain + bleeding but without fetal tissue passage or cervical dilation
Spontaneous: abdo pain + bleeding with fetal tissue passage and some degree of cervical opening
