Questions Flashcards
What is the Fergusons reflex? (3mks)
Where the uterus contracts from the oxytocin and the fetus starts to descend into the vagina and cervix which stimulates nerves at the back of the vagina which re stimulates the oxytocin as afferent impulses are sent to the hypothalamus
How does the cervix change in labour? (3mks)
It retains water
Made up of collagen so the water weakens the collagen making it wider and more susceptible to contractions
Squamous columnar junction pulled onto outside of cervix as normally on inside but this is from contractions pulling it outwards
Define co-ordinated uterine action (2mks)
Where the upper segment of the uterus contracts and retracts at the same time as the lower segment of the uterus relaxes and dilates
How does the uterus prepare itself for labour? (8mks)
1) gap junctions are formed as channels between myometrial cells to facilitate quick and efficient signal movement to make contractions efficient and smooth
2) oxytocin receptors formed to allow oxytocin to dock onto myometrial cells making them contract
3) formation of lower segment as isthmus formed between cervix and upper uterus to expand for growing fetus
4) 3 layers of myometrium are formed as spiral longitudinal and circular
Define fetal axis pressure (2mks)
Longitudinal downward pressure applied by the fund is to the bottom of the fetus which travels down the fetal spine (axis) to creat equal application of pressure onto the cervix and flexion of the presenting part to aid effacement and dilation of the cervix
How does fetal axis pressure impact cervical effacement? (2mks)
Contraction and retraction of the myometrial cells causes pressure from the fundus which causes flexion of the presenting part and application of pressure from it onto the cervix
Define the first stage of labour (2mks)
Dilation of the cervix in the presence of regular uterine contractions until fully dilated
Define labour (2mks)
The process by which the fetus placenta and membranes are expelled through the birth canal
