week 12 - pregnancy

Question 1

what does hCG (produced by developing placenta) do?

Answer 1

stimulates corpus luteum for 3 months then decreases production

Question 2

role of placenta?

Answer 2

• exchange of material between mother and baby
• large cavities filled with maternal blood

Question 3

role of umbilical cord?

Answer 3

• connects placenta to fetal circulatory system

Question 4

role of oxytocin in labour + birth?

Answer 4

• evokes contraction of uterine smooth muscle

Question 5

what are the stages of labour?

Answer 5

1. dilation of cervix
2. expulsion (from full dilation to birth)
3. placental (separation)

Question 6

mammory glands?

Answer 6

• apocrine gland: lost in secretion
• skin: nipple + areola
• parenchyma: glandular tissue
• stroma: produces main bulk of mammory gland

Question 7

how does milk secretion work?

Answer 7

decreased prolactin inhibiting factor production > anterior pituitary > prolactin > stimulates milk secretion

Question 8

how does milk ejection work?

Answer 8

decreased prolactin inhibiting factor production > posterior pituitary > oxytocin > stimulates milk ejection