For which of the following vaginal signs is increased pulsation felt through the lateral fornices during pregnancy?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Osiander's sign is defined as the palpable pulsation of the vaginal arteries in the lateral fornices of the vagina.
This sign is a result of increased vascularity and blood flow to the uterus and vagina, which is a physiological change in early pregnancy.
It is typically detectable by bimanual examination around the 8th week of gestation.
The key differentiator is that Osiander's sign is a palpable pulsation, whereas other signs like Chadwick's or Jacquemier's are visual color changes, and Hegar's sign is a change in tissue consistency (softening).

Option A: Hegar's sign is the softening and compressibility of the lower uterine segment (the isthmus), not a pulsation. It is felt by bimanual examination as a paper-thin connection between the cervix and uterine body.
Option B: Jacquemier's sign is a visual finding, not a palpable one. It refers to the violet-blue discoloration of the vaginal mucosa due to venous congestion.
Option C: Chadwick's sign is also a visual finding of bluish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and vulva due to increased blood flow. It is not a palpable pulsation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Probable signs of pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing probable signs of pregnancy is a fundamental skill for nurses in antenatal care. It allows for early identification of potential pregnancy and initiation of appropriate care and counseling.
It is crucial for nurses to educate patients that these signs are not definitive proof of pregnancy. Conditions like pelvic congestion or hormonal imbalances can mimic these signs.
Nurses must explain the need for confirmatory tests, such as a urine or blood hCG test and an ultrasound, to provide a positive diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of the specific signs of pregnancy.
First, carefully read the question and identify the key clinical finding described: "increased pulsation felt through the lateral fornices."
Next, review each option and recall its definition.
Option A, Hegar's sign, is softening of the uterus.
Option B, Jacquemier's sign, is a color change (violet-blue) of the vagina.
Option C, Chadwick's sign, is also a color change (bluish) of the cervix and vagina.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur pp. 6-11, 7-12

Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.