Review these Reproductive Health and Pregnancy Foundations – Quiz 4 nursing practice questions with answer choices and explanations.
Which hormone primarily stimulates follicle development during the first half of the menstrual cycle?
Correct answer:
Explanation: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes maturation of ovarian follicles during the follicular phase.
Which anatomic structure releases the ovum during ovulation?
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Explanation: Ovulation is the release of a mature ovum from the ovary.
Which physiologic change causes physiologic anemia of pregnancy?
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Explanation: Plasma volume increases more than red blood cell mass, resulting in dilutional (physiologic) anemia.
Which hormone is responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum early in pregnancy?
Correct answer:
Explanation: Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) supports the corpus luteum so it can continue progesterone production.
Which finding is a presumptive sign of pregnancy?
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Explanation: Amenorrhea is a subjective symptom reported by the client and is considered presumptive evidence.
Which structure forms the maternal portion of the placenta?
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Explanation: The decidua basalis is the maternal component that anchors the placenta to the uterus.
Which hormone increases maternal insulin resistance to provide glucose for the fetus?
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Explanation: Human placental lactogen induces insulin resistance, ensuring adequate glucose availability for the fetus.
Which fetal circulation structure allows blood to pass from the right atrium to the left atrium?
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Explanation: The foramen ovale shunts blood between atria, bypassing the fetal lungs.
Which maternal adaptation commonly causes heartburn during pregnancy?
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Explanation: Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle, decreasing lower esophageal sphincter tone and causing reflux.
Which hormone is responsible for uterine growth during pregnancy?
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Explanation: Estrogen stimulates uterine enlargement and increased blood flow.
Which structure provides early nourishment to the developing embryo before the placenta is fully functional?
Correct answer:
Explanation: The yolk sac provides early nutrition and contributes to early blood cell formation.
Which maternal change contributes to varicose veins during pregnancy?
Correct answer:
Explanation: The enlarging uterus compresses pelvic veins, causing venous stasis and varicosities.
Which hormone promotes relaxation of pelvic ligaments in preparation for childbirth?
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Explanation: Relaxin softens ligaments and joints to facilitate labor and delivery.
Which fetal structure carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus?
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Explanation: The umbilical vein transports oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus.
Which trimester is associated with organogenesis?
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Explanation: Organogenesis occurs primarily during the first trimester.
Which maternal respiratory change is expected during pregnancy?
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Explanation: Tidal volume increases to meet higher oxygen demands.
Which hormone initiates milk production after delivery?
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Explanation: Prolactin stimulates synthesis of breast milk.
Which maternal adaptation can cause supine hypotensive syndrome?
Correct answer:
Explanation: The gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava when supine, reducing venous return.
Which sign indicates softening of the cervix in early pregnancy?
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Explanation: Goodell sign refers to cervical softening early in pregnancy.
Which fetal structure shunts blood away from the liver?
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Explanation: The ductus venosus allows blood to bypass the fetal liver.
Which maternal hormone decreases after delivery, allowing lactation to begin?
Correct answer:
Explanation: A drop in estrogen after delivery allows prolactin to stimulate milk production.
Which physiologic change contributes to constipation during pregnancy?
Correct answer:
Explanation: Progesterone relaxes gastrointestinal smooth muscle, slowing peristalsis.
Which maternal structure supplies nutrients and oxygen to the fetus?
Correct answer:
Explanation: The placenta facilitates nutrient, gas, and waste exchange between mother and fetus.
Which fetal age is generally considered the threshold of viability?
Correct answer:
Explanation: Viability is generally considered around 24 weeks with advanced neonatal support.
Which maternal adaptation explains increased urinary frequency in early pregnancy?
Correct answer:
Explanation: The enlarging uterus exerts pressure on the bladder, increasing urinary frequency.
Which structure encloses the fetus and amniotic fluid?
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Explanation: The amnion forms the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus.
Which hormone stimulates uterine contractions during labor?
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Explanation: Oxytocin triggers and strengthens uterine contractions during labor.
Which maternal change increases the risk of gingival bleeding during pregnancy?
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Explanation: Estrogen increases vascularity and sensitivity of gingival tissue.
Which fetal circulation change occurs after birth?
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Explanation: After birth, increased oxygen levels cause the ductus arteriosus to close.
Which maternal endocrine change supports fetal calcium needs?
Correct answer:
Explanation: Parathyroid hormone increases to enhance calcium availability for fetal bone development.