Pregnancy Physiology Flashcards
Over the counter pregnancy tests rely on the detection of which hormone in the urine?
Human chorionic gonadotrophin
Which of these is a positive sign of pregnancy?
A- positive pregnancy test
B- fetal heart detected on ultrasound (correct answer)
C- amenorrhea
D- enlarged uterus
What is pseudocyesis?
Imagined pregnancy
Why is the embryonic period a high risk time for the development of major birth defects?
Basic structures of all major body organs are completed during this time
Development of the glandular ducts in the breasts is due to the influence of?
Oestrogen
Which hormone is not secreted by the anterior pituitary gland?
Oxytocin
The drop in haemoglobin levels typically found during pregnancy is due to?
An increase in both red blood cells and plasma with plasma increasing at a greater proportion.
Coagulation time in pregnancy does what?
Decrease
Cardiac output increases during pregnancy how much?
40%
Progesterone does what in pregnancy?
Relaxes smooth muscle
During pregnancy some women may notice chloasma on their?
Face- brown patches on the skin
Changes in skin colour during pregnancy is due to?
Increase melanin
Name 4 symptoms of pregnancy?
Sensitive breasts
Fatigue
Headache
Vomiting
Which is HCG initially produced?
Blastocyst
How early after conception can HCG be produced?
6-10 days
How long into pregnancy can HCG be detected?
60-70 days
Which hormone does HCG promote the production of?
Progesterone and oestrogen
Which physical sign of pregnancy is HCG related to?
Nausea and vomiting
Amenorrhea is a sign of pregnancy but what else may it signify?
Poly cystic ovaries
Hormones in balance
Premature menopause
Pseudocyesis
Which endocrine organs enlarge during pregnancy?
Thyroid and pituitary
Which hormones are produced by the pituitary gland?
Prolactin, cortisol, oxytocin, progesterone
Which endocrine gland is responsible for the ‘glow’ of pregnancy?
Melanocytes
What is the temporary endocrine gland developed during pregnancy?
The placenta