From Conception to Birth
This reflex prepares the baby to respond to sudden stimuli
Moro (startle) reflex
Why does blood volume increase during pregnancy?
To support fetus and tolerate blood loss
Explain why upright positions improve labor?
Upright positions are more effective in promoting labor progress. These positions take advantage of the gravitational effects, making the descent of the fetal head easier.
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By contrast, in the back-lying positions (supine), contractions are less effective
List two risk factors for miscarriage
Advanced maternal age
Use of alcohol or smoking
Exposure to untreated STIs or viral infections
Incompetent cervix
Explain why postpartum/peripartum depression is best explained using a multifactorial approach.
because it results from the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. For example, hormonal change, prior mental health history, sleep deprivation, and the quality of social support can combine to influence both the risk and severity of symptoms.
List two rehearsal behaviors that help prepare the fetus for living outside the womb after birth.
thumb-sucking, fetal breathing
How can social media affect the pregnancy experience?
by creating unrealistic expectations of how one should look or feel.
What are the benefits of water birth?
This method can reduce pain and the need for epidurals.
What is ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when implantation takes place outside the uterus, most often in the ampulla of the fallopian tube. The primary risk is rupture with internal hemorrhage
Formula companies use these strategies to sell their milk products
Provide two examples of teratogens
Teratogens include alcohol, drugs, lead, high levels of radiation exposure, certain medications, infections, and toxic substances
Describe the concept " transition to parenthood".
This concept describes how pregnancy involves physical, emotional, and social changes that reshape identity and relationships
What are some medical indications for C-section?
Umbilical cord prolapse (the cord is compressed before birth)
Breech presentation (baby is positioned feet or buttocks first)
Cephalopelvic disproportion (the baby is too large for the pelvis.)
Placental abruption (the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before birth). I
Placenta previa ( the placenta covers the cervix)
Why is placental abruption dangerous for both mother and fetus?
Because when the placenta detaches from the uterus, there is a loss of oxygen. Detachment of the placenta will result in uterine hemorrhage.
List some infant and maternal benefits of breastfeeding.
infant ( improve immune system, decrease severity of upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, obesity, and chronic diseases)
Mother ( improve uterine contractions, may help with weight loss, decrease risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and new pregnancy ( delay ovulation) infant bonding)
For society, it reduces healthcare costs (fewer illnesses), is environmentally friendly, and economical!
Why is the embryonic period considered a critical period?
Because this period includes organ formation and is the most critical for structural development.
This emotional state reflects both excitement and anxiety about pregnancy and is considered a normal part of the transition to parenthood.
Ambivalence
Why are C-sections higher among Black women?
Because of a complex interplay of socioeconomic, healthcare system, and systemic factors, some of which are rooted in racial disparities and inequities.
Pre-pregnancy Health Disparities - May have higher rates of certain medical conditions that lead to medically indicated C-sections
Healthcare System Disparities. Limited access to hospitals with lower C-section rates, or to midwifery care, can be a factor.
What are the functions of the placenta?
to exchange nutrients and oxygen between mother and fetus.
This global initiative promotes 10 steps to support breastfeeding in hospitals.
Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (WHO/UNICEF)
Name two long-term consequences of prenatal stress on infant.
Emotional or cognitive problems, chronic disease risk
What is the Couvade Syndrome?
A psychosomatic condition in which expectant fathers experience pregnancy-like symptoms such as weight gain, nausea, and mood changes.
Belief in science, rationalism
Development of medical practices ( epidural anesthesia, cesarean section)
Economic pressures to reduce healthcare costs; Standardization of care
Pubic health movement ( hospital as a safe environment)
Why is the placenta examined after birth?
To detect abnormalities or retained fragments - prevent postpartum bleeding
the fetal side, which is the side facing the baby, the surface is usually smooth and shiny.
The maternal side is made up of small lobes that help facilitate the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between maternal and fetal blood
How does the breastfeeding environment in Sweden differ from that in the United States
In Sweeden, more generous paid maternity leave (up to 18 months), restricts formula marketing, promotes breastfeeding as a social norm
In USA, limited (often unpaid) maternity leave, more aggressive formula marketing, and less consistent institutional and cultural support.