Diagnosis of Pregnancy

Symptoms of early pregnancy

  • Amenorrhoea
  • Nausea
  • ncreased frequency of micturation
  • Breast swelling/tenderness
  • Examination may reveal

  • Enlargement of uterus
  • Breast changes, increased nipple pigmentation and development of raised sebaceous glands called, Montgomery’s tubercles
  • Linea nigra on abdominal wall
  • Chloasma of face, the ‘mask’ of pregnancy – pigmentation around the forehead and cheek
  • Confirmation of diagnosis

  • Presence of the beta subunit of hCG in the urine, this may be detected before the first missed period and rises rapidly in the first trimester
  • Ultrasound scanning for confirmation of viable fetus, multiple fetus and to check gestational age
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    Disclaimer: These notes are my own personal study aid - DO NOT use them for medical advice!