LOCAL REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM CHANGES

Uterine Changes in Pregnancy

The uterus grows in length, depth, width, weight, and volume to accommodate the fetus.

Uterine Length

The notes describe an increase from approximately 6.5 cm to 32 cm.

Uterine Depth

The notes describe an increase from approximately 2.5 cm to 22 cm.

Uterine Width

The notes describe an increase from approximately 4 cm to 24 cm.

Uterine Weight

The notes describe an increase from approximately 50 g to 1,000 g.

Uterine Volume

The notes describe an increase from about 2 mL to more than 1,000 mL.

Amenorrhea

Absence of menstruation.

Operculum

The mucus plug that forms in the cervix during pregnancy.

Cervical Changes

The cervix becomes more vascular and edematous and develops a mucus plug.

Vaginal Changes

Increased blood supply causes enlargement and bluish discoloration of the vagina.

Vaginal pH

Vaginal secretions have an acidic pH of about 4–5, helping resist bacterial invasion.

Ovarian Changes

Ovulation stops during pregnancy.

Breast Changes

Breasts may become full, tender, larger, and more vascular, while the areola darkens.

Areola

The pigmented area surrounding the nipple.

Colostrum

The early breast secretion that may appear during pregnancy.

Nipple Changes

Nipples may become more erectile during pregnancy.