Physiology Flashcards
How long is a usual menstrual cycle
21-35days
What hormone induces follicular development in the ovary?
FSH from the anterior pituitary
What hormone inhibits FSH production?
Oestrogen released from the follicles
What hormone stimulates ovulation?
LH surge (as stimulated by oestrogen increase)
What effects does oestrogen have on the endometrium
Causes endometrial thickening
What effects does progesterone have on the endometrium?
Causes glands dilation and secretion
What cells in the blastocyte go on to develop the embryo and placenta?
Inner cells develop into embryo
Outer cells placenta
By what day should implantation be complete?
Day 12
What cells go on to make the placenta?
Trophoblasts
What structures form in the villi (made from the differentiated trophoblastic cells)
Capillaries that then allow exchange of material between mom and foetus
There is a two way exchange of all nutritents across the placenta except what substances?
Electrolytes like iron and calcium go ONLY from mom to foetus
What are some of the functions of progesterone in pregnancy
Help relax foetus
Preparation of breasts for lactation by developing the lobes and alveolar system
Inhibits contractility of uterus
What are some of the functions of oestrogen in pregnancy
Enlarge uterus Develop breasts Relax ligaments for labour Increases contractility of the uterus Causes ducts in breast tissue to develop
What should happen to HCG levels in a healthy pregnancy?
Serum levels should double every 48hrs for the first 12wks or at least by 60%
From what week shoudl HCG levels start to decrease?
From 12-14 weeks HCG levels start to decline
