The bluish discoloration of the cervix, vagina that is observed as early as 6-8 weeks after conception is cal… - Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

Chadwick's sign is the correct medical term for the bluish or purplish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and vulva.
This sign is a result of increased blood flow and venous congestion (hyperemia) in the pelvic region, which is stimulated by the hormonal changes of early pregnancy, particularly elevated estrogen.
It is considered a probable sign of pregnancy and can be observed by a healthcare provider during a pelvic examination as early as 6 to 8 weeks of gestation.

Option B: Osiander's sign refers to the increased pulsation felt through the lateral vaginal fornices. While it is also a probable sign of pregnancy caused by increased uterine blood flow, it is a tactile finding (pulsation) rather than a visual one (color change).
Option C: Homan's sign is a clinical test used to assess for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). It involves pain in the calf upon dorsiflexion of the foot. It has no relation to the signs of pregnancy.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct term, Chadwick's sign, is provided in the options.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain The question tests the knowledge of the probable signs of pregnancy, specifically the term for the bluish discoloration of the cervix and vagina as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing the probable signs of pregnancy, like Chadwick's sign, is a fundamental skill for nurses in maternity care. It helps in the early assessment and counseling of women who suspect they might be pregnant.
It is crucial for nurses to differentiate between presumptive (subjective), probable (objective but not definitive), and positive (definitive) signs of pregnancy to provide accurate patient education and avoid misdiagnosis.
What if? If a non-pregnant patient presented with a bluish cervix, the nurse should consider other causes of pelvic vascular congestion, such as a pelvic mass or tumor, and ensure the patient is referred for further gynecological evaluation.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question stem to identify the key clinical finding: 'bluish discoloration of the cervix, vagina' and the timing '6-8 weeks after conception'.
Recognize that this is a factual recall question asking for the specific medical term for this sign of pregnancy.
Evaluate each option based on your knowledge of obstetrical terminology.
Option A, Chadwick sign, is the classic term for this bluish discoloration.
Option B, Osiander sign, relates to pulsation, not color.
Option C, Homan's sign, relates to DVT, not pregnancy signs.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The question tests the knowledge of the probable signs of pregnancy, specifically the term for the bluish discoloration of the cervix and vagina.
Stem keywords: bluish discoloration, cervix, vagina, 6-8 weeks, conception
Lead-in keywords: is called

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 39-58

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