Childbirth Educator Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy 2

Question 1

What is the name of the specialized circulatory structure in the fetus that allows blood to bypass the non-functioning lungs?

Accepted Answer

All of the above

Answer

All three — the ductus arteriosus, foramen ovale, and ductus venosus — are fetal circulatory shunts that divert blood away from the lungs and liver until birth.

Question 2

During pregnancy, which change to the maternal respiratory system helps compensate for increased oxygen demand?

Accepted Answer

Increased tidal volume with mild hyperventilation

Answer

Progesterone stimulates an increase in tidal volume (amount of air per breath), leading to a mild respiratory alkalosis that favors oxygen transfer to the fetus.

Question 3

The fundal height in centimeters roughly corresponds to which measurement after 20 weeks?

Accepted Answer

Weeks of gestation

Answer

After 20 weeks, fundal height in centimeters typically corresponds to the number of weeks of gestation (±2 cm), making it a quick clinical estimation tool.

Question 4

Which presentation occurs when the baby's buttocks or feet are positioned toward the cervix rather than the head?

Accepted Answer

Breech presentation

Answer

Breech presentation means the fetal buttocks or feet are the presenting part, which can complicate vaginal delivery and often prompts consideration of cesarean birth.

Question 5

What anatomical change causes many pregnant women to experience shortness of breath in the third trimester?

Accepted Answer

Decreased lung capacity from uterine pressure on the diaphragm

Answer

As the uterus enlarges in the third trimester, it pushes the diaphragm upward, reducing lung expansion capacity and causing dyspnea.

Childbirth Educator Practice Test

Childbirth Educator Practice Test

Childbirth Educator Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy 2