Maternal Physiological Adaptations in Human Pregnancy

A collection of vocabulary flashcards related to physiological adaptations during pregnancy.

Physiological changes during pregnancy

Pregnancy causes physiological changes nearly in all maternal organ systems that facilitate fetal development and preparation for labor.

Uterus

The uterus expands significantly during pregnancy, increasing in weight and size as it accommodates the growing fetus.

Cervix

During pregnancy, the cervix is closed and forms a mucus plug, which protects the uterine contents; it dilates during labor.

Placenta

A specialized organ that supports fetal growth and development during pregnancy, consisting of fetal and maternal sides.

Amnion

One of the fetal membranes, it forms a sac around the fetus, is thin, and contains amniotic fluid.

Chorion

Fetal membrane that is thicker than the amnion, in contact with maternal decidua, and acts as a buffer to protect the fetus.

Decidua

Modified endometrium during pregnancy, consisting of three parts: basalis, capsularis, and parietalis.

Relaxin

A hormone secreted during pregnancy that relaxes ligaments and muscles, facilitating labor.

Gestational Diabetes

A condition characterized by inadequate insulin response resulting in maternal hyperglycemia and potential fetal macrosomia.

Cardiac Output

Increases significantly during pregnancy due to higher blood volume and changes in stroke volume and heart rate.

Blood Volume

Total blood volume increases by about 1.5 liters during pregnancy to support the additional demands placed on the body.

Immune tolerance

The absence of maternal immune response against the fetus and placenta to maintain pregnancy.

Metabolic Changes

Pregnancy increases metabolic rate, requiring additional caloric intake and affecting glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism.

Parturition

The act of giving birth, regulated by endocrine and immune mechanisms that lead to cervical ripening and contractions.