Physiology in Childbearing

Section 1 - Preconception. Basic biochemistry. The Cell - its structures and functions. The female reproductive system. The male reproductive system. Fertility control. Infertility. Preconception matters. Section 2A - Pregnancy - the fetus. General embryology. Embryological systems 1 - trunk, head and limbs. Embryological systems 2 - internal organs. The placenta. Amniotic fluid. Fetal growth and development. Common fetal problems. Congenital defects. Section 2B - Pregnancy -the mother. The haematological system - physiology of the blood. The cardiovascular system. Respiration. The renal tract. Fluid, electrolyte and acid/base balance. The gastrointestinal tract. The accessory digestive organs. Nutrition and metabolism. The nature of bone, the female pelvis and fetal skull. Muscle - the pelvic floor and the uterus. The central nervous system. The peripheral and autonomic nervous systems. The endocrine system. The immune system. Section 2C - Pregnancy - the problems. Minor disorders of pregnancy. Bleeding in pregnancy. Cardiac and hypertensive disorders. Anaemia and clotting disorders. Respiratory , renal, gastrointestinal and neurological problems. Metabolic disorders in pregnancy - diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders. Section 3A Labour - normal. The onset of labour. The first stage of labour. Pain relief in labour. The second stage of labour. The third stage of labour. Section 3B - Labour Problems. Abnormalities of uterine action and onset of labour. Breech presentation. Malposition and cephalic malpresentations. Cephalopelvic disproportion, obstructed labour and other obstetric emergencies. Postpartum haemorrhage and other third-stage problems. Perinatal asphyzia. Operative delivery. Section 4A Puerperium - the baby. Adaptatin to extrauterine life 1 - respiratory and cardiovascular function. Adaptation to extrauterine life 2 - nutritional and metabolic adjustments. The low birthweight baby - common problems and care. Neonatal cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. Neonatal jaundice and metabolic disorders. Infections and trauma in the neonate. Section 4B Puerperium - the mother. The breasts and lactation. Breastfeeding practice and problems. The puerperium. Biobehavioural aspects of parenting.