Maternity Nursing Q 376
Heartburn and flatulence, common in the second trimester, are most likely the result of which of the following?
A. Increased plasma HCG levels
B. Decreased intestinal motility
C. Decreased gastric acidity
D. Elevated estrogen levels
Correct Answer: C. Decreased gastric acidity
During the second trimester, the reduction in gastric acidity in conjunction with pressure from the growing uterus and smooth muscle relaxation can cause heartburn and flatulence.
Option A: HCG levels increase in the first, not the second, trimester. Typically, the hCG levels will double every 72 hours. The level will reach its peak in the first 8-11 weeks of pregnancy and then will decline and level off for the remainder of the pregnancy.
Option B: Decrease intestinal motility would most likely be the cause of constipation and bloating. The gallbladder enlarges and empties sluggishly in response to meals during pregnancy. Small bowel transit is slowed, and the resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter is reduced. All these effects are reversed by delivery; motility reverts toward normal in the postpartum period. The rapid return of normal motility suggests that the effects of pregnancy are hormonally related.
Option D: Estrogen levels decrease in the second trimester. Estrogen is a major hormone that involves a lot of minor hormones like estradiol which was mentioned above. The estrogen hormones in women are critical as they are produced by the placenta and ovaries and play a pivotal role in seeing the pregnancy to term. They do so by maintaining the uterine lining which provides a safe space for the growth of the baby. They also help regulate other hormones like progesterone which are essential for fetal growth.