Parturition and Post-Partum

Question 1

Parturition: What needs to get done?

Answer 1

Final Maturation of fetus
Termination of pregnancy
Expansion of birth canal
Initiation of uterine contractions
Maternal Behavior favorable to survival of young
Synthesis of milk
Ejection of milk (at proper times)

Question 2

Trigger for Parturition

Answer 2

• Fetus determines the onset of parturition via attainment of functional hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
• Fetal Hypothalmus produces CRF, A.P - produces ACTH
• Target is placenta
• fetal cortisol will induce either estradiol or PGF2a secreation leading to lysis of CL

Question 3

Increase in what up-regulates oxytocin receptors in the uterus

Answer 3

Estrogen

Question 4

What initiates uterine contractions

Answer 4

Ca++ influx

Question 5

Ferguson Reflex

Answer 5

pressure on the cervix as the fetus enters the pelvic canal stimulates the release of oxytocin form the posterior pituitary

Question 6

Post-parturition: Uterine Involution

Answer 6

Requires 20-40 days
does not appear to play a major role in post-partum infertility
* Negative effects of the post-partum uterine environment of fertility end earlier than other negative effects on fertility

Question 7

Post-Partum: Lochia

Answer 7

Normal discharge following parturition
Present for up to 3-4 weeks
Red, gree, black,
Non-odorus
Contains bits of mucus and placenta

Question 8

Post Partum: Expel fetal membranes

Answer 8

Should be expelled w/n a few hours
Can be a medical emergency

Question 9

Post-partum: Post-partum complications

Answer 9

Clinical signs:
* Depression
* Fever

Malodourus discharge