Maternal Adaptations- Systems 1

Reproductive System Adaptations

Uterus, Cervix, Vagina, Ovaries, Breast

Uterus: increase in

overall size and weight

Uterus: Becomes an

ovoid shape; positive Hegar sign

Uterus: Enhanced

uterine contractility; Braxton hisck contractions

Uterus: Ascent into

abdomen after first 3 months

Uterus: Fundal height by 20 weeks

at the level of umbilicus (measuring at about 20cm)

Uterus: Fundal height is a 

Reliable way to determine gestational age until 36 weeks

Cervix: Softening

Goodell sign

Cervix: formation of

Mucus plug

Cervix: Increased

vascularization (Chadwick sign)

Cervix: Ripening

about 4 weeks prior to birth

Vagina: Increased

vascularity with thickening

Vagina: Lengthening of

the vaginal vault

Vagina: more

acidic secretion, white and thick called leukorrhea

Ovaries: Stop

ovulating

Ovaries: enlarged until

12 - 14 week

Breasts: Increase in

size for lactation; increase in nipple size, becoming darker and more erect

Breasts: Colostrum is

produced and can be expressed after the 12^th week

Colostrum

Anti-body rich yellow fluid that will convert to mature milk after delivery

Gastrointestinal: The gums tend to

bleed more and be swollen

Gastrointestinal: Ptyalism

excessive salivation

Gastrointestinal: Dental issues

gingivitis

Gastrointestinal: Heartburn due to

slowed gastric emptying

Gastrointestinal: progesterone levels

Decreased peristalsis and smooth muscle relaxation

Gastrointestinal: Constipation

leads to hemorrhoids b/c of increased venous pressure and the pressure of the uterus

Gastrointestinal: Prolonged

gallbladder emptying can lead to formation of gallstones

Gastrointestinal: feelings of

nausea and vomiting