Lecture 5 - Physiological adaptations to pregnancy

earliest probable sign of pregnancy

Chadwicks sign

Physiological changes to the vagina in pregnancy

The blood supply increases, causing the bluish color of Chadwick's sign & it becomes acidic to kill off any invading pathogens

Physiological changes to the uterus/cervix in pregnancy

increases in size to provide room for the developing fetus... uterus gets 20x its original size

Physiological changes to the breasts in pregnancy

they hypertrophy, nipples elevate/darken so baby can see them. Colostrum scented specific to mom & mammary glands double in the second trimester

Physiological changes to the CV system in pregnancy

blood volume increases 40-45% (1500mls), vasomotor dilation, heart pumps harder, CO increases by 30-40%, increase in clotting factors

Physiological changes to the GI system in pregnancy

appetite decreases, sore gums

pyrosis

heartburn

Pytalism

excessive salivation

estrogen effects in pregnancy

1. Builds tissue (hyperplasia)
2. Change in character of the tissue (stretch marks, pregnancy glow)

Progesterone effects in pregnancy

1. decreases sensitivity to oxytocin
2. smooth muscle relaxation
3. allows embryo to embed & prepares breasts
4. maintains the pregnancy

Dyspnea nursing care

use an extra pillow at night

nasal stuffiness nursing care

use saline drops, humidify room air

Epitaxis nursing care

apply moisturizer locally, voice may change, costal angle widens

Supine hypotension nursing care

lie on left side, rise slowly from sitting to standing

Backache nursing care

wear shoes with a low heel, firm mattress, avoid heavy lifting

fatigue nursing care

frequent rest periods, use a pillow between legs & under abdomen

linea nigra

a dark line appearing on the abdomen and extending from the pubis toward the umbilicus

Epulis

nontender, fibrous nodule of the gum common in pregnancy

chloasma

pigmentary skin discoloration usually occurring in yellowish brown patches or spots during pregancy

Bathing nursing care

temperature cannot be greater than 39 degrees, avoid hot tubs, only bathe if membrane is intact

Kegals nursing care

very important to strengthening pelvic floor

nursing care regarding pets

avoid litter boxes & cats