Question 1

Which hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating uterine contractions during childbirth, and is released in a positive feedback loop?

Accepted Answer

Oxytocin

Question 2

During pregnancy, which hormone is secreted by the placenta and is known to suppress maternal growth hormone, increase lipolysis, and promote gluconeogenesis?

Accepted Answer

Human placental lactogen (hPL)

Question 3

A pregnant woman experiences increased blood volume and cardiac output. What is the primary physiological reason for these changes?

Accepted Answer

To support both maternal and fetal needs and safeguard against blood loss during birth

Question 4

Which hormone is measured in ovulation prediction kits to indicate that ovulation is imminent or has recently occurred?

Accepted Answer

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Question 5

After expelling the oocyte, the follicle transforms into the ________ and secretes ________.

Accepted Answer

Corpus luteum; estrogen and progesterone

Question 6

Which hormone directly stimulates the development of male secondary sex characteristics?

Accepted Answer

Testosterone

Question 7

During pregnancy, why does the mother’s insulin sensitivity decrease, potentially leading to gestational diabetes?

Accepted Answer

Human placental lactogen (hPL) exerts a glucose-sparing effect for the fetus

Question 8

Which physiological change is NOT commonly associated with pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Decreased urine production

Question 9

What is the term for the shrinkage of the uterus after childbirth, and what process achieves this?

Accepted Answer

Involution; autolysis of uterine cells by their own enzymes

Question 10

Which hormone is responsible for milk synthesis after birth, and what event triggers its spike?

Accepted Answer

Prolactin; infant feeding

Question 11

A woman who is breastfeeding is less likely to ovulate. What is the physiological mechanism behind this?

Accepted Answer

Lactation suppresses ovulation by increasing prolactin levels

Question 12

Which stage of labor is characterized by the rupture of fetal membranes and discharge of amniotic fluid?

Accepted Answer

Dilation stage

Question 13

What is the main function of colostrum produced in the first few days postpartum?

Accepted Answer

Supplies antibodies to protect the infant from infection

Question 14

Which equation best represents the increase in blood volume during pregnancy, if the normal blood volume is $$V_0$$ and the increase is up to 40%?

Accepted Answer

$$V = V_0$ + 0.4V_0$$

Question 15

A woman’s uterus increases from about 50g to 2 pounds by full term. What is the primary tissue responsible for this increase?

Accepted Answer

Myometrium

Question 16

Which hormone’s rapid rise at the end of pregnancy increases maternal ACTH and cortisol levels, providing protection during childbirth?

Accepted Answer

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)

Question 17

During labor, what triggers the self-amplifying cycle of uterine contractions?

Accepted Answer

Stretching of the cervix

Question 18

Which physiological change is most likely to cause varicose veins in pregnant women?

Accepted Answer

Impaired venous return from lower limbs due to uterine pressure

Question 19

If a mother produces 1.5L of milk per day, what dietary adjustments must she make to accommodate this demand?

Accepted Answer

Increase intake of calcium, phosphate, protein, fats, and other nutrients

Question 20

Which hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland 5 weeks into pregnancy but is inhibited from causing milk synthesis until after birth?

Accepted Answer

Prolactin

Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Lactation: ANP Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards