How long is a full term
38.5 weeks from conception to 40.5 weeks since LMP
Three trimesters - 13 weeks each
HOw does the uterus size change through each trimester
its the size of a fist at the start of pregnancy, dramatic growth in 2nd and and 3rd trimester
what are the main hormones for preganancy
estrogen, progesterone, hcg
When does the corpus luteum degenerate and whats the response
btw 12-17 weeks from LMP, thre fore need placenta to take over as endocrine organ.
how does the placenta play a role with estrogen
Placenta converts weak androgens secreted by maernal and fetal adrenal glands to estrogens
preventing ovulation, tissue growth in detus, maturation of lungs and liver, maternal tissue grwoth of the uterus and mammary glands.
what does progesterone do from placenta
prevent ovulation
inihibitions of uterine contractions
- the drop in progesterone during late gestation allows uterine contractions to increase
what does hcg do from placenta
stimulate testosterone production in male fetal gonads
what does relaxin from placenta harmone do?
increases elasticity in joints and ligaments in pelvis
what are the changes in digestive and urinary organ systems during pregnancy during 1st trimester
also called marning sickness
- decreased intestinal peristalsis
- pregancy - related hormones
mid-pregnancy changes in organ system
- kydneys become highly efficient to process fetal and maternal wastes
- high urine production
3rd trimester changes in organs
gastric reflux: upward constriction of growing uterus in stomach
frequent urination - downward pressing on bladder
what are the changees in the cirulatory system
30% increase in blood volume
moderate rise in pulse
moderate rise in blood pressure
why does gestational diabetes happen
the pregnancy harmones cause insuline resistance, which cannot be overcome by pancreasae, this increases risk of pre-term labor, developmment of type II diabetes later in life.
what are the two main indicators of pre-eclammpsia
elevated blood pressure and protein in urine
what are the symptoms for pre-eclampsia
headache, right upper-quadrant abdominal pain, vision changes, abnormal swelling.
what are the potential compllications with pre-eclampsia and what happens if untreated
liver and kidney damage, bleeding, fetal growth restriction, fetal death. if left untreated eclampsia, causes seizures, coma, renal failure.
what is the treatment to mild and severe cases of pre-eclampsia
mild cases: monitoring and bed rest
severe cases: hospitalization and pre-term delivery
what are the respiratory changes
volume of gas inghaled or exaled by lungs increased by 50%
upward pressure on diaphragm causes shortness of breath
respiraory mucose swell
