Question

Which gastrointestinal alteration of pregnancy is a normal finding?

a. Insufficient salivation (ptyalism) is caused by increases in estrogen.
b. Acid indigestion (pyrosis) begins early but declines throughout pregnancy.
c. Hyperthyroidism often develops (temporarily) because hormone production increases.
d. Nausea and vomiting rarely have harmful effects on the fetus and may be beneficial.

Answer 1

During pregnancy, a normal gastrointestinal alteration is acid indigestion (pyrosis), which is caused by the growing uterus exerting pressure on the stomach. Morning sickness, which is also common and typically harmless to the fetus, tends to improve by the second trimester.

Step-by-step explanation:

The gastrointestinal alteration of pregnancy that is a normal finding is acid indigestion (pyrosis). Acid indigestion is a result of the upward, constrictive pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach, leading to symptoms such as heartburn. This condition typically begins early in pregnancy and can continue as the uterus grows. Another common issue is nausea and vomiting, often referred to as "morning sickness," which is triggered by increased sensitivity to odors and elevated levels of certain hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and hCG. While it causes discomfort, morning sickness rarely has harmful effects on the fetus and by about week 12, the nausea typically subsides.