PGIMER Sangrur NO - 2…: Braxton-hick's contraction would indicate to?

PGIMER Sangrur NO - 2023

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: PGIMER Sangrur NO - 2023

Explanation

Braxton-Hicks contractions are classified as a probable sign of pregnancy.
Probable signs are objective findings noted by an examiner that make pregnancy highly likely.
The presence of these intermittent, non-progressive uterine contractions confirms that the uterus is gravid (pregnant).
Therefore, they are an indicator of a true, physiological pregnancy, as opposed to a false pregnancy or other abdominal conditions.

Option A: False pregnancy, or pseudocyesis, is a psychological condition where a woman believes she is pregnant but is not. Braxton-Hicks contractions are a physiological phenomenon of an actual gravid uterus.
Option B: Contractions at labor are true labor contractions. They are regular, increase in intensity and frequency, and cause progressive cervical dilation and effacement. Braxton-Hicks contractions are irregular and do not cause cervical change.
Option C: While it is factually correct that Braxton-Hicks contractions can occur throughout the later stages of pregnancy, this option describes their timing, not their clinical significance as a sign. The question asks what they indicate, which is the presence of a pregnancy.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Signs of pregnancy and the significance of Braxton-Hicks contractions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A primary nursing role is to educate expectant mothers on how to differentiate between Braxton-Hicks contractions and true labor. This helps reduce anxiety and prevents unnecessary trips to the hospital.
Nurses should advise patients on comfort measures for Braxton-Hicks, such as changing position, walking, resting, taking a warm bath, and staying well-hydrated, as dehydration can sometimes trigger them.
Patient teaching should emphasize that while Braxton-Hicks are normal, any contractions that become regular, stronger, and closer together, especially before 37 weeks, require immediate medical evaluation to rule out preterm labor.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Braxton-hick's contraction'.
Recall the three categories of pregnancy signs: presumptive (subjective), probable (objective), and positive (diagnostic).
Classify Braxton-Hicks contractions. They are objective (can be palpated by an examiner) but not 100% diagnostic, placing them in the 'probable' category.
Understand that a probable sign's purpose is to suggest a high likelihood of pregnancy.
Evaluate the options: 'True Pregnancy' aligns with the function of a probable sign.
Eliminate the other options. 'False Pregnancy' is a psychological condition. 'Contraction at Labour' refers to true, progressive labor. 'Contraction throughout the pregnancy' describes timing, not the diagnostic meaning of the sign.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Signs of pregnancy and the significance of Braxton-Hicks contractions.
Stem keywords: Braxton-hick's contraction, indicate
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 36-56

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 3 p. 66-68