PMC Prenatal Anatomy & Physiology 2

Question 1

Which hormone is primarily responsible for relaxing pelvic ligaments during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Relaxin

Answer

Relaxin is secreted by the corpus luteum and placenta, softening ligaments and preparing the pelvis for delivery.

Question 2

The uterus rises out of the pelvis and becomes an abdominal organ at approximately which week of gestation?

Accepted Answer

12 weeks

Answer

By 12 weeks the uterus is large enough to rise above the pelvic brim and become palpable as an abdominal organ.

Question 3

What structural change in the diaphragm occurs as the uterus enlarges in the third trimester?

Accepted Answer

It is displaced superiorly by about 4 cm

Answer

The enlarging uterus pushes abdominal contents upward, elevating the diaphragm by approximately 4 cm.

Question 4

During pregnancy, maternal blood volume increases by approximately what percentage?

Accepted Answer

30–50%

Answer

Total blood volume increases 30–50% during pregnancy to meet the perfusion demands of the placenta and fetus.

Question 5

Which plexus of veins is at risk for varicosities due to increased pelvic pressure during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Pudendal plexus

Answer

The pudendal venous plexus drains the perineum and vulva and is compressed by the gravid uterus, leading to vulvar varicosities.

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