What event occurring in the second trimester helps the expectant mother to accept the pregnancy?

DHS 2018 shift 1st

Obstetrics and Midwifery Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DHS 2018 shift 1st

Explanation

Quickening is the first perception of fetal movement by the mother, which is a key event in pregnancy.
It typically occurs during the second trimester, around 16-20 weeks of gestation.
This physical sensation provides tangible proof of the fetus, which is a profound psychological milestone that helps the mother accept the pregnancy and begin bonding.
It transforms the pregnancy from an abstract concept into a concrete reality for the expectant mother.

Option A: Lightening occurs in the third trimester, not the second. It is the physical event of the fetus dropping into the pelvis, which provides relief from shortness of breath but is not the primary event for initial psychological acceptance.
Option B: Ballottement is an objective sign of pregnancy that is elicited by a healthcare provider during a physical examination. It is not a subjective experience felt by the mother herself.
Option C: Pseudocyesis is a false pregnancy. It is a psychological condition where a woman believes she is pregnant and may experience symptoms, but there is no fetus. It is the opposite of accepting a real pregnancy.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Maternal psychological adaptation and signs of pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The onset of quickening is an important milestone to document during antenatal check-ups as it helps confirm gestational age and fetal well-being.
Nurses can use the event of quickening as a teaching moment to educate the mother about monitoring fetal movements (kick counts), which is a crucial aspect of fetal surveillance in the third trimester.
A mother's perception of fetal movement is a key indicator of fetal health. A decrease or absence of movement can be a warning sign and should be reported immediately.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key components of the question: the event must occur in the 'second trimester' and it must have a psychological impact that helps the mother 'accept the pregnancy'.
Evaluate each option based on its timing. The second trimester is from week 13 to week 28.
Consider 'Lightening'. Recall or look up that this event happens late in the third trimester, so it can be eliminated.
Consider 'Ballottement'. This is a clinical sign detected by an examiner, not a subjective feeling experienced by the mother. Therefore, it is unlikely to be the primary event for psychological acceptance.
Consider 'Pseudocyesis'. This is a false pregnancy, which is a psychological condition and not a normal event in an actual pregnancy. This can be eliminated.
Consider 'Quickening'. This is the first feeling of fetal movement, which occurs around 16-20 weeks (in the second trimester). This tangible sign of life is a powerful psychological event that makes the pregnancy real for the mother, leading to acceptance. This option fits all criteria.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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