The cause of change in size and appearance of breasts during pregnancy:
A. The breast charges are due to the secretion of estrogen and progesterone
B. B. The breast become stretched because of the weight gain
C. The increased metabolic rate causes the breasts to become larger
D. Cortisol secreted by the adrenal glands play a factor in increasing the size and appearance of the breasts
Correct Answer: A. The breast charges are due to the secretion of estrogen and progesterone
Explanation:
During pregnancy, the size and appearance of the breasts change primarily due to hormonal influences.
Cause of change in size and appearance of breasts during pregnancy
The main cause is the increased levels of hormones such as:
- Estrogen
- Progesterone
- Prolactin
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
How hormones cause breast changes
Hormone Effect on Breast Estrogen Causes growth and development of ducts and increases breast size Progesterone Stimulates growth of lobules and alveoli for milk production Prolactin Prepares the breast for milk secretion hCG and Relaxin Increase blood flow causing swelling and tenderness
Resulting physical changes
- Enlargement and fullness of breasts
- Darkening and enlargement of nipples and areola
- Development of Montgomery glands
- Increased venous visibility due to increased blood supply
- Tenderness and heaviness
Short answer
The change in size and appearance of breasts during pregnancy is mainly due to increased estrogen and progesterone levels, which stimulate growth of breast tissues and preparation for lactation.
Other Options Details
Here is the description of all the given options:
A. The breast changes are due to the secretion of estrogen and progesterone
During pregnancy, the hormones estrogen and progesterone increase significantly.
- Estrogen stimulates the growth and development of milk ducts.
- Progesterone promotes the development and enlargement of the milk-producing glands (alveoli).
These hormonal effects make the breasts increase in size, fullness, tenderness, and sensitivity.
B. The breasts become stretched because of weight gain
During pregnancy, women typically gain body weight, including fat deposition in the breast tissue.
As the breasts enlarge due to both fat accumulation and glandular growth, the skin stretches, which may lead to:
- Stretch marks
- Feeling of heaviness
- Tightness in the breast area
C. The increased metabolic rate causes the breasts to become larger
Pregnancy increases the body’s metabolic rate, which enhances circulation and overall tissue activity.
More blood flow to the breast tissue may cause:
- Swelling
- Fullness
- Sensitivity
This contributes to the increase in breast size and volume.
D. Cortisol secreted by the adrenal glands plays a factor in increasing the size and appearance of the breasts
Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, increases during pregnancy.
It supports:
- Fat storage
- Growth of milk-secreting tissues
- Fluid retention
These changes can enhance the size, firmness, and appearance of the breasts.
Summary
Breast changes during pregnancy result from hormonal influence, fat deposition, increased metabolism, and cortisol-related tissue growth.
Therefore, multiple factors contribute to breast enlargement and appearance changes.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)