maternal adaptations in pregnancy

UTERUS

what are some characteristics of the uterus when pregnant

• enlarges

• hyperplasia (increased number of cells)

• hypertrophy (increased size of cells)

braxton hicks contractions

irregular practice contractions

what happens to blood vessles and abdominal organs when the uterus enlarges

• blood vessels increase to support greater uterine blood flow

• other abdominal organs shift upward

CERVIX, VAGINA, VULVA

goodells sign

softening of the cervix

chadwicks sign

bluish/purple color of the cervix, vagina, and vulva

hegars sign

softening of the lower uterine segment

what does the mucus plus go

seals the cervical canal and helps block bacteria

loss of mucus plug accompanies cervical change

OVARIES

what happens with the corpus leuteum and the placenta

corpus luteum supply early pregnancy during the first 6-7 weeks

then placenta takes over the next 6-10 weeks

what two hormones are increased during pregnancy

progesterone and estrogen

they suppress FSH and LH so ovulation stops

BREAST

what does estrogen do for breast

stimulates mammary duct growth

progesterone

supports growth of lobes, lobules, and alveoli