Reproduction
This structure produces eggs (ova) and the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
What are the ovaries?
This is the term for the union of an egg and sperm, usually occurring in the ampulla of the fallopian tube.
What is fertilization?
This hormone, produced by the placenta, is responsible for maintaining the uterine lining in early pregnancy.
What is progesterone?
This nutrient is essential for preventing neural tube defects and should be taken at least 400 mcg daily before and during pregnancy.
What is folic acid?
This hormone is secreted by the anterior pituitary and stimulates ovulation.
What is luteinizing hormone (LH)?
This is the stage when the fertilized ovum becomes a ball of cells before implantation.
What is the morula?
During pregnancy, this blood component increases by about 50%, often leading to “physiologic anemia.”
What is plasma volume?
Pregnant women should avoid this substance entirely because it is linked to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
What is alcohol?
The phase of the menstrual cycle where the endometrium thickens under the influence of progesterone to prepare for possible implantation.
What is the secretory phase?
Implantation of the blastocyst typically occurs in this location of the uterus.
What is the endometrium of the uterine fundus?
Pregnant women are prone to heartburn because this hormone relaxes smooth muscle, including the esophageal sphincter.
What is progesterone?
Most providers recommend this schedule for prenatal visits: every 4 weeks until 28 weeks, every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, and then weekly until birth.
What are routine prenatal visits?
Fertilization typically occurs in this part of the female reproductive system.
What is the fallopian tube (ampulla)?
The embryonic period (weeks 3–8) is the most critical stage of development because this occurs.
What is organogenesis (development of major organs)?
During the second trimester, many women experience this emotional adjustment, where pregnancy becomes real and the mother focuses on the fetus as a separate being.
What is acceptance (or maternal role attachment)?
This vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy, ideally between 27–36 weeks, to protect the newborn from pertussis.
What is Tdap?
This feedback mechanism between the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and ovaries regulates the menstrual cycle.
What is the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis?
By this gestational age, the fetus is considered viable because the lungs can support limited gas exchange with intensive care.
What is 24 weeks?
This common musculoskeletal complaint in pregnancy is caused by the shifting center of gravity and the hormone relaxin.
What is low back pain?
A pregnant woman should contact her healthcare provider immediately if she experiences this symptom, which may indicate preeclampsia.
What is severe headache, visual changes, or swelling of the face/hands?