Motherhood Biology: 17 MCQs with answers

Exchange of nutrients and waste between mother and fetus

The placenta facilitates nutrient, gas, and waste exchange between the maternal and fetal bloodstreams.

Increased cardiac output

Cardiac output increases by 30–50% during pregnancy to meet the demands of the growing fetus and maternal tissues.

Prolactin

Prolactin from the anterior pituitary promotes milk synthesis in the alveoli of the mammary glands.

First milk rich in antibodies

Colostrum is the first milk produced postpartum, rich in immunoglobulins and nutrients essential for the newborn.

Umbilical cord

The umbilical cord contains two arteries and one vein, connecting the fetus to the placenta for nutrient and waste exchange.

Morning sickness

Morning sickness is often due to elevated hCG and estrogen levels during early pregnancy.

Houses and nourishes the developing fetus

The uterus provides a safe environment for fetal growth and development.

False

Prolactin levels increase during breastfeeding to sustain milk production.

Progesterone

Progesterone maintains the uterine lining (endometrium) to support implantation and early pregnancy.

Milk ejection reflex

Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding.

Maintains the corpus luteum

hCG sustains the corpus luteum, which continues to secrete progesterone until the placenta takes over.

Glucose

Glucose is the main energy substrate for fetal growth and development, transferred across the placenta.

Protects the fetus and allows movement

Amniotic fluid cushions the fetus, maintains temperature, and permits fetal movement and development.

Faster uterine involution

Breastfeeding stimulates oxytocin release, which helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size.

True

By the end of the first trimester, the placenta is sufficiently developed to take over hormone production and nutrient exchange.

Softens the cervix and relaxes pelvic ligaments

Relaxin helps prepare the birth canal by softening the cervix and relaxing pelvic joints.

Fetal cortisol and placental CRH

Fetal cortisol and placental corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) play key roles in initiating labor.