Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

27. The Reproductive System

Introduction to the Reproductive System

Anatomy & Physiology

27. The Reproductive System

Introduction to the Reproductive System

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following tends to initiate Braxton Hicks contractions, or 'false labor'?

Increased estrogen levels

Stretching of the uterine muscles

Decreased progesterone secretion

Release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of Braxton Hicks contractions: These are irregular, non-labor contractions of the uterus that occur during pregnancy. They are often referred to as 'false labor' because they do not lead to childbirth.

Review the physiological triggers for uterine contractions: Uterine contractions can be influenced by hormonal changes, mechanical stretching, and other factors. Braxton Hicks contractions are typically associated with the stretching of uterine muscles as the pregnancy progresses.

Analyze the role of estrogen and progesterone: Increased estrogen levels can prepare the uterus for labor by promoting uterine sensitivity to oxytocin, while decreased progesterone levels reduce the inhibitory effect on uterine contractions. However, these hormonal changes are more closely associated with true labor rather than Braxton Hicks contractions.

Examine the role of oxytocin: Oxytocin is a hormone released by the posterior pituitary that stimulates uterine contractions during true labor. While oxytocin can influence uterine activity, it is not the primary cause of Braxton Hicks contractions.

Conclude that the stretching of uterine muscles is the most likely trigger for Braxton Hicks contractions: As the uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus, the mechanical stretching of the uterine muscles can initiate these irregular contractions.