Final answer:
Goodell's Sign refers to the softening of the cervix at 4-5 weeks gestation, which is a normal change during pregnancy as the body prepares for childbirth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The softening of the cervix around 4-5 weeks of gestation is known as Goodell's Sign. This is one of several changes that the cervix undergoes during pregnancy, which also include effacement (thinning) and dilation. Goodell's Sign is indicative of the cervical softening that takes place as the body prepares for the eventual labor process. Other signs that manifest during pregnancy include Hegar's Sign, which is the softening of the lower uterine segment, and Chadwick's Sign, which refers to the blue discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and labia resulting from increased blood flow. Neither these signs nor the presence of Braxton Hicks contractions, which are false labor pains, should be confused with Goodell's Sign.