Taking Drugs While Pregnant

Animated explanation of how pregnancy and conception happen!

The changes that occur in the pregnant patient’s body are caused by several factors. Many of these changes are the result of hormonal influence, some are caused by the growth of the fetus inside the uterus, and some are the result of the patient’s physical adaptation to the changes that are occurring. This lesson is closely related to anatomy and physiology.

CHANGES OF THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM DURING PREGNANCY

Changes in the body during pregnancy are most obvious in the organs of the reproductive system.

a. Uterus.

(1) Changes in the uterus are phenomenal. By the time the pregnancy has reached term, the uterus will have increased five times its normal size:

(a) In length from 6.5 to 32 cm.

(b) In depth from 2.5 to 22 cm.

(c) In width from 4 to 24 cm.

(d) In weight from 50 to 1000 grams.

(e) In thickness of the walls from 1 to 0.5 cm.

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Many women feel awkward and even a bit frightened when they see their gynecologist for a routine check up. This level of anxiety can be compounded when there’s a serious medical problem requiring continuing visits. For this reason, women are often selective in who they choose as their gynecologist.

One of the decisions a woman must make in selecting a gynecologist is whether to choose a male or female doctor. When making this decision, it’s important to understand the advantages of choosing a male or female gynecologist. There is no doubt that there are highly competent and caring gynecologists of both sexes, so it will be important to consider the individual and their background over sex. What are the advantages of choosing a female gynecologist over a male gynecologist?

Women doctors tend to spend more time with their patients.

You may have a variety of questions and concerns when you visit your gynecologist. You need a gynecologist who’s willing to take the time to answer your questions. Several studies have shown that, women doctors tend to spend more time with patients when compared to their male counterparts. Again, you’ll want to consider the individual physician since this doesn’t hold true in every case.

Women doctors may have more natural empathy for gynecological problems.

Women physicians have the same reproductive organs that you do and often experience the same problems as their patients. This may give her unique insight and empathy into what you’re experiencing. It can be reassuring to know someone understands what you’re going through.

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Placenta previa is the implantation of the placenta where it at least partially covers the cervix. It occurs in about one in 250 pregnancies.

Types of Placenta Previa
There are four types of placenta previa:

• Complete previa is where the cervix is completely covered by the placenta.

• Partial previa is where a portion of the cervix is covered by the placenta.

• Marginal previa is where the placenta extends to the edge of the cervix, without covering it.

• Low-lying previa is where the placenta is implanted in the lower uterine area, but not touching the cervixdge of the cervix.

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