5-1. INTRODUCTION

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.

LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you should be able to:

5-1. Identify changes, which occur in the uterus, cervix, vagina, and ovaries during pregnancy.

5-2. Select changes of the skin and breast that occurs during pregnancy.

5-3. Identify changes, which occur in the circulatory system, respiratory system, urinary system, skeletal system, and gastrointestinal system during pregnancy.

5-4. Identify changes, which occur in the cardiac output during pregnancy.

5-5. Identify nursing indications for a patient who may have changes in her blood pressure during pregnancy.

5-6. Identify changes, which occur in the body temperature during pregnancy.

5-7. Identify nursing implications for the patient with gastrointestinal symptoms.

5-8. Identify changes in the endocrine system and placenta during pregnancy.

5-9. Identify changes in weight, which occur during pregnancy.