CMA Reproductive Anatomy & Physiology 3

Question 1

Which fetal shunt allows blood to bypass the fetal liver by connecting the umbilical vein to the inferior vena cava?

Accepted Answer

Ductus venosus

Answer

The ductus venosus shunts oxygenated blood from the umbilical vein directly to the inferior vena cava, bypassing the hepatic circulation.

Question 2

During pregnancy, which cardiovascular change is expected in a healthy mother?

Accepted Answer

Physiologic anemia due to plasma volume increase

Answer

Plasma volume increases by ~50% while red cell mass increases by ~20–30%, creating a dilutional (physiologic) anemia of pregnancy.

Question 3

The Braxton Hicks contractions differ from true labor contractions primarily because they:

Accepted Answer

Do not cause cervical effacement or dilation

Answer

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless practice contractions that do not result in cervical effacement or dilation.

Question 4

Which hormone relaxes pelvic ligaments and softens the cervix in preparation for birth?

Accepted Answer

Relaxin

Answer

Relaxin, produced by the corpus luteum and placenta, loosens pelvic ligaments and promotes cervical ripening near term.

Question 5

Which fetal presentation is considered normal and most common at term?

Accepted Answer

Vertex (cephalic) presentation

Answer

Vertex presentation, where the fetal occiput enters the pelvis first, occurs in approximately 96% of term deliveries.

CMA - Certified Midwife Assistant Practice Test