To reassure and educate the patients concerning changes in the uterus, nurses should be aware that:

Question

1. lightening occurs near the end of the second trimester as the uterus rises into a different position.
2. the woman's increased urinary frequency in the first trimester is because of ex-aggerated uterine antiflexion resulting from softening.
3. Braxton Hicks contractions become more painful in the third trimester, particu-larly if the woman tries to exercise.
4. the uterine souffle refers to the movement of the fetus.

Answer 1

2
1. Incorrect. Lightening occurs in the last 2 weeks when the fetus descends.
2. Correct. This softening of the lower uterine segment is called the Hegar sign.
3. Incorrect. Braxton Hicks contractions become more defined in the final trimester but are not painful. Walking or exercise usually will cause them to cease.
4. Incorrect. The uterine souffle is the sound made by blood in the uterine arteries; it can be heard with a fetal stethoscope.