Uterine Stimulants

What is oxytocin, and what does it do in the body?

Oxytocin is both a drug and a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates a positive feedback loop, increasing uterine contractions.

What are the uses of oxytocin?

Oxytocin is used to induce labor, enhance labor, deliver the placenta, manage postpartum hemorrhage, and for stress testing.

How do estrogens affect bone resorption?

Estrogens block bone resorption and reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.

What is FSH, and what does it do?

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) stimulates the growth of ovaries in females and sperm production in males.

List some therapeutic uses of estrogens.

Contraception, acne treatment in young females, relief of postmenopausal symptoms, prevention of osteoporosis, and treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

What are some complications associated with estrogen therapy?

Complications may include endometrial and ovarian cancers if estrogens are used alone, thromboembolic events, and altered blood coagulation.

What should clients report when taking estrogens?

Clients should report persistent vaginal bleeding and any adverse symptoms such as swelling, warmth, or pain in lower legs.

What are common adverse effects of estrogens?

Common adverse effects include nausea, hypertension, thrombophlebitis, edema, visual disturbances, and headaches.

What is the black box warning associated with estrogen therapy?

The black box warning is for reproductive cancer risk, cardiovascular disorders, and dementia.

What are contraindications for using estrogens?

Contraindications include pregnancy, lactation, history of heart disease, and estrogen-dependent cancers.

What is the mechanism of action of progestins?

Progestins inhibit the secretion of pituitary gonadotropins, preventing follicular maturation and ovulation.

What are some therapeutic uses of progestins?

Progestins are used for treating uterine bleeding, secondary amenorrhea, endometrial cancer, and contraception.

What are the complications associated with progestins?

Complications may include breast cancer in postmenopausal clients, thromboembolic events, and breakthrough bleeding.

What client education should be provided regarding menstrual changes when on progestins?

Clients should be informed about the possibility of breakthrough bleeding and the requirement for regular breast self-exams.

What should be monitored if progestins are administered with certain medications?

Monitor for changes in effectiveness when used with benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other interacting medications.

What are the evaluation criteria for the effectiveness of hormonal medications?

Criteria include restoration of hormonal balance, control of uterine bleeding, and decrease in endometrial hyperplasia.

What is the main difference between monophasic and biphasic oral contraceptives?

Monophasic oral contraceptives have a constant dose of estrogen and progestin throughout the cycle, while biphasic contraceptives vary the dosage.