The bluish discoloration of the cervix vagina that is observed as early as 6-8 weeks after conception is called?

Appeared in: HPSSC Staff Nurse - 2021

Explanation

Chadwick sign is the characteristic bluish or purplish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and vulva.
It is caused by increased blood flow (hyperemia) and venous congestion in the pelvic tissues, a normal physiological response to pregnancy hormones.
This sign is one of the earliest probable signs of pregnancy, typically appearing around the 6th to 8th week of gestation.

Option B: This sign refers to the increased pulsation felt through the lateral vaginal fornices due to the enlarged uterine artery, not a color change.
Option C: This is a clinical test used to assess for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the calf. It is not a sign of pregnancy.
Option D: This is incorrect because Chadwick sign is the correct medical term for the described phenomenon.

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 like Chadwick sign is a fundamental nursing skill during the initial antenatal assessment. It prompts further investigation with confirmatory tests like serum hCG or ultrasound.
While highly suggestive of pregnancy, Chadwick sign is not a positive (definitive) sign. Pelvic congestion from other causes, such as a pelvic tumor, can rarely mimic this appearance.
What if? If a woman presents with bluish discoloration of the cervix but her pregnancy test is negative, the nurse must consider non-pregnancy causes of pelvic vascular congestion and ensure a thorough gynecological evaluation is performed.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question stem to identify the key clinical finding: 'bluish discoloration of the cervix vagina' and the timing: '6-8 weeks after conception'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of the specific terminology for signs of pregnancy.
Systematically review the options. Recall the definition of each sign.
Chadwick sign is the classic term for bluish discoloration due to increased vascularity.
Osiander sign is related to pulsation, and Homans sign is for DVT. These do not match the description.
Therefore, select Chadwick sign as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QAIb_rtzQg36EOITCw7SBh

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 39-58

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 6-11

Practise the full HPSSC Staff Nurse - 2021

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