The co-ordination between fundal contraction and cervical dilatation is called as?

Appeared in: Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

Explanation

Polarity is the specific term for the neuromuscular harmony between the upper and lower segments of the uterus during labor.
It describes the coordinated action where the upper segment (fundus) contracts and retracts to expel the fetus.
Simultaneously, the lower uterine segment and cervix relax and dilate to allow the passage of the fetus.
This harmonious opposition is essential for the progressive dilatation of the cervix and the descent of the fetus through the birth canal.

Option A: Retraction is the permanent shortening of the uterine muscle fibers after a contraction. While it is a crucial part of labor, it describes the behavior of the muscle fibers themselves, not the coordination between the different parts of the uterus.
Option C: Fundal dominance describes the pattern of a uterine contraction, which is strongest at the fundus and spreads downwards. It ensures the force is directed correctly but does not describe the coordinated relaxation of the lower segment.
Option D: Effacement is the thinning and shortening of the cervix. It is a result of the uterine forces (contractions, retraction, and polarity) acting upon the cervix, not the coordination of those forces.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Physiology of Labor: Uterine Action as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding polarity is fundamental for a nurse to assess labor progress. Normal polarity results in efficient cervical dilatation and fetal descent.
A breakdown in polarity leads to incoordinate uterine action, a common cause of dystocia (abnormal labor). This presents as painful, ineffective contractions with poor cervical change, requiring careful monitoring and potential intervention.
Nurses monitor contraction patterns and cervical changes to ensure this coordination is effective. Lack of progress despite strong contractions may indicate a polarity issue.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of the specific terminology used in the physiology of labor.
First, identify the key concepts in the question: 'co-ordination', 'fundal contraction', and 'cervical dilatation'. The question is asking for the name of the process that links the action of the fundus with the action of the cervix.
Next, review the definitions of each option.
Retraction refers to the shortening of muscle fibers.
Fundal dominance refers to the location and strength of the contraction.
Effacement refers to the thinning of the cervix.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 18-26

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 9-26

Practise the full Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

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