Reproductive Physiology Practice Questions

Q: Which of the following are advantages of state of haemodilution during pregnancy? 1. Optimum gaseous exchange between maternal and foetal circulation due to decreased blood viscosity 2. Protection against adverse effect of blood loss during delivery 3. Increased oxygen carrying capacity of blood Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1 and 2 only. ***1 and 2 only*** - **Haemodilution** during pregnancy, characterized by a disproportionate increase in plasma volume relative to red blood cell mass, leads to decreased blood **viscosity**. - A lower blood viscosity facilitates more efficient **gaseous exchange** (oxygen and carbon dioxide) between the maternal and fetal circulations at the placenta, and also offers a degree of protection against the effects of **blood loss during delivery** by maintaining circulating volume. *1, 2 and 3* - While haemodilution promotes efficient gaseous exchange and protects against blood loss, it does **not increase the oxygen carrying capacity** of the blood. - In fact, the relative decrease in red blood cell concentration leads to physiological anemia of pregnancy, which reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity (though total oxygen delivery may be maintained by increased cardiac output). *2 and 3 only* - This option correctly identifies protection against blood loss but incorrectly states an **increased oxygen carrying capacity**. - The primary mechanism for improved oxygen delivery is enhanced blood flow due to reduced viscosity and increased cardiac output, not an increased concentration of oxygen carriers. *1 and 3 only* - This option correctly identifies improved gaseous exchange but incorrectly suggests an **increased oxygen carrying capacity**. - Protection against blood loss is a significant benefit of pregnancy-induced haemodilution, which is overlooked in this choice.

Q: After how many hours of LH surge does the ovulation occur?

24-36 hours. ***24-36 hours*** - The **luteinizing hormone (LH) surge** triggers the final maturation of the oocyte and rupture of the dominant follicle. - Ovulation typically occurs **24-36 hours after the onset of the LH surge**, or approximately **10-18 hours after the LH peak**. - This is the **standard timeframe** taught in reproductive physiology and corresponds to the physiological cascade required for follicular rupture. *12-24 hours* - This timeframe is **too early** for ovulation to occur after the LH surge onset. - While some follicular changes begin during this period, the complete maturation and rupture process typically requires more time. - This might represent the interval from LH peak in some cases, but not from surge onset. *12-36 hours* - This range is **too broad** and includes both early (12h) and appropriate (24-36h) timeframes. - While the upper range is correct, the lower bound extends into a period when ovulation has typically not yet occurred. - Less precise than the 24-36 hour window. *24-48 hours* - While ovulation can occasionally occur up to 48 hours post-surge, this is **less common**. - The upper limit (48h) extends beyond the typical ovulation window. - Most ovulations are completed by 36 hours after the LH surge onset.

Q: The hormone Relaxin of pregnancy is secreted by:

Ovary. ***Ovary*** - During early pregnancy, **relaxin** is primarily produced by the **corpus luteum** in the ovary. - Subsequently, towards late pregnancy, the **decidua** and **placenta** also contribute to relaxin production. *Pituitary gland* - The **pituitary gland** produces hormones such as **FSH**, **LH**, **prolactin**, and **oxytocin**, but not relaxin. - These hormones play roles in **menstrual cycle regulation**, **lactation**, and **uterine contractions**. *Vagina* - The **vagina** is a muscular canal that serves as the birth canal; it does not produce hormones. - Its primary functions are in **sexual intercourse** and **childbirth**. *Fallopian tube* - The **fallopian tubes** are responsible for transporting eggs from the ovaries to the uterus and are sites of fertilization. - They do not have a role in the production of **pregnancy hormones** like relaxin.

Q: The ferning of cervical mucus is due to the high concentration of :

Sodium chloride. ***Sodium chloride*** - The characteristic **ferning pattern** observed in cervical mucus is primarily due to the crystallization of **sodium chloride** under the influence of estrogen. - This crystallization occurs as the mucus dries on a slide, forming a fern-like pattern that indicates high estrogen levels and often signifies the periovulatory period. *Sodium bicarbonate* - While present in bodily fluids, **sodium bicarbonate** does not directly contribute to the characteristic fern-like crystallization seen in cervical mucus. - Its primary role is buffering, maintaining pH balance, rather than forming crystal patterns. *Potassium chloride* - Although potassium ions are present in cervical secretions, **potassium chloride** does not specifically form the classic fenestrated pattern observed in ferning. - The unique crystallization properties of sodium chloride distinguish it from other salts in this context. *Potassium bicarbonate* - Similar to sodium bicarbonate, **potassium bicarbonate** does not contribute to the fern phenomenon of cervical mucus. - It plays a role in pH regulation but not in the distinct crystallization pattern associated with estrogen and fertility.

Q: Pregnancy is characterized by the following physiological changes except :

Decreased glomerular filtration rate. ***Decreased glomerular filtration rate*** - During **pregnancy**, there is a significant **increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR)**, typically by 30-50%, due to increased renal blood flow and vasodilation. - A decreased GFR would be an abnormal finding, indicating renal dysfunction, not a normal physiological change of pregnancy. *Dilatation of ureters* - **Physiological hydronephrosis** and **utereral dilation** are common in pregnancy, primarily due to the relaxed smooth muscle effects of **progesterone** and mechanical compression by the gravid uterus. - This dilation occurs as early as the first trimester and can persist until after delivery. *Delayed gastric emptying time* - **Progesterone** acts as a smooth muscle relaxant, leading to decreased gastrointestinal motility and a **delayed gastric emptying time** during pregnancy. - This can contribute to common pregnancy symptoms like **nausea, vomiting**, and **heartburn**. *Increased tidal volume* - **Tidal volume (TV)** increases during pregnancy, primarily driven by hormonal changes, specifically **progesterone**. - This increase in TV leads to a greater minute ventilation, helping to meet the increased oxygen demands of both the mother and the fetus.

Q: The absence of fructose in the seminal fluid indicates a defect of

Seminal vesicles. ***Seminal vesicles*** - The **seminal vesicles** are responsible for producing and secreting a significant portion of the seminal fluid, including **fructose**. - **Fructose** serves as the primary **energy source** for sperm motility; its absence indicates a defect in these glands. *Leydig cells* - **Leydig cells** are located in the testes and primarily produce **testosterone**, which is crucial for male sexual development and spermatogenesis. - While important for sperm production indirectly, they do not directly contribute to the **fructose content** of seminal fluid. *Hypothalamic-pituitary axis* - The **hypothalamic-pituitary axis** regulates testicular function by releasing hormones like **GnRH**, **LH**, and **FSH**, which control testosterone production and spermatogenesis. - A defect here would primarily affect hormone levels and sperm production, not directly the **fructose secretion** from seminal vesicles. *Testicular tubular epithelium* - The **testicular tubular epithelium** (Sertoli cells and germ cells) is involved in **spermatogenesis**, the process of sperm formation. - While essential for producing mature sperm, it does not contribute to the production or secretion of **fructose** into the seminal fluid.

Q: The respective hormones responsible for the breast milk secretion and ejection are, in that order:

Prolactin and Oxytocin. ***Prolactin and Oxytocin*** - **Prolactin** is the primary hormone responsible for the **synthesis and secretion of milk** from the mammary glands. - **Oxytocin** is responsible for the **milk ejection reflex**, causing contraction of myoepithelial cells around the alveoli and ducts to release milk. *Oestrogen and Prolactin* - **Oestrogen** primarily plays a crucial role in the **development of the mammary glands** during puberty and pregnancy, but it inhibits milk secretion. - While **prolactin** is involved in milk secretion, oestrogen's role is not milk ejection. *Oxytocin and Prolactin* - This option reverses the order of the hormones' functions; **oxytocin** is for ejection, not secretion first. - **Prolactin** is for milk secretion, not ejection. *Prolactin and Oestrogen* - **Prolactin** is responsible for milk secretion. - **Oestrogen** *inhibits* milk secretion and is not involved in milk ejection.

Q: Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding physiology of menstruation? 1. LH surge precedes ovulation 2. There are two peaks in serum estradiol levels, first in follicular and second in luteal phase 3. Serum progesterone has only one peak i.e., in luteal phase Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1, 2 and 3. ***1, 2 and 3*** - All statements accurately describe key hormonal events during the menstrual cycle. The **LH surge** is indeed the trigger for ovulation, with **estradiol** exhibiting a biphasic pattern, and **progesterone** peaking in the luteal phase. - Understanding the precise timing and interaction of these hormonal events is fundamental to comprehending the entire **physiological process of menstruation**, including follicular development, ovulation, and preparation for potential pregnancy. *2 and 3 only* - This option is incorrect because it omits statement 1, which correctly identifies that the **LH surge precedes ovulation**, a crucial event for ovarian follicle rupture and oocyte release. - The **LH surge** is a direct consequence of rising estrogen levels and is essential for triggering the final maturation of the oocyte and its release from the Graafian follicle. *1 and 2 only* - This option is incorrect because it omits statement 3, which correctly notes that **serum progesterone has only one peak in the luteal phase**, produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation. - The rise in **progesterone** in the luteal phase is vital for preparing the uterine endometrium for implantation and maintaining a potential pregnancy. *1 only* - This option is incorrect as it only acknowledges the **LH surge preceding ovulation** but fails to include the accurate descriptions of the **biphasic estradiol peaks** and the **single progesterone peak** in the luteal phase, both of which are fundamental aspects of the menstrual cycle. - A comprehensive understanding of menstrual physiology requires recognizing the interplay of all these hormonal dynamics throughout the cycle.

Q: Which of the following statements regarding β-Human chorionic Gonadotropin are NOT correct? 1. It is a glycoprotein hormone. 2. Serum levels increase in pregnancy, germ cell tumors and gestational trophoblastic disease 3. Its levels are same in single and multiple pregnancy 4. Both alpha and beta subunits are unique and not shared with other hormones Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

3 and 4. ***3 and 4*** * Statements 3 and 4 are both **incorrect** regarding β-hCG. * **Statement 3 is incorrect:** β-hCG levels are **significantly higher** in multiple pregnancies compared to singleton pregnancies. Twin pregnancies typically show 30-50% higher β-hCG levels. * **Statement 4 is incorrect:** β-hCG shares a **common alpha subunit** with FSH, LH, and TSH. Only the **beta subunit is unique** and provides diagnostic specificity. This is a key concept in understanding glycoprotein hormone structure. *1, 3 and 4* * This option incorrectly includes statement 1 as incorrect. * Statement 1 is **correct** - β-hCG is a well-established glycoprotein hormone with carbohydrate moieties attached to a protein core. * While statements 3 and 4 are indeed incorrect, including the correct statement 1 makes this option wrong. *2, 3 and 4* * This option incorrectly includes statement 2 as incorrect. * Statement 2 is **correct** - serum β-hCG levels are markedly elevated in normal pregnancy, germ cell tumors (seminomas, choriocarcinomas), and gestational trophoblastic disease (molar pregnancy). *1, 2 and 3* * This option incorrectly identifies statements 1 and 2 as incorrect when both are correct. * It also omits statement 4, which is incorrect regarding the subunit structure of β-hCG.

Question 1

Which of the following are advantages of state of haemodilution during pregnancy?

1. Optimum gaseous exchange between maternal and foetal circulation due to decreased blood viscosity
2. Protection against adverse effect of blood loss during delivery
3. Increased oxygen carrying capacity of blood

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Accepted Answer

1 and 2 only

Answer

1, 2 and 3

Answer

1 and 3 only

Answer

2 and 3 only

Question 2

Which one of the following statements is correct regarding foetal physiology?

Accepted Answer

Haematopoiesis is demonstrated first in the yolk sac by 14th day.

Answer

Foetal pancreas secretes insulin as early as 20 weeks.

Answer

Meconium appears at 16 weeks.

Answer

Breathing movements are identified at 26 weeks.

Question 3

After how many hours of LH surge does the ovulation occur?

Accepted Answer

24-36 hours

Answer

24-48 hours

Answer

12-24 hours

Answer

12-36 hours

Question 4

The hormone Relaxin of pregnancy is secreted by:

Accepted Answer

Ovary

Answer

Pituitary gland

Answer

Vagina

Answer

Fallopian tube

Question 5

The ferning of cervical mucus is due to the high concentration of :

Accepted Answer

Sodium chloride

Answer

Sodium bicarbonate

Answer

Potassium chloride

Answer

Potassium bicarbonate

Question 6

Pregnancy is characterized by the following physiological changes except :

Accepted Answer

Decreased glomerular filtration rate

Answer

Dilatation of ureters

Answer

Delayed gastric emptying time

Answer

Increased tidal volume

Question 7

The absence of fructose in the seminal fluid indicates a defect of

Accepted Answer

Seminal vesicles

Answer

Leydig cells

Answer

Hypothalamic-pituitary axis

Answer

Testicular tubular epithelium

Question 8

The respective hormones responsible for the breast milk secretion and ejection are, in that order:

Accepted Answer

Prolactin and Oxytocin

Answer

Oestrogen and Prolactin

Answer

Oxytocin and Prolactin

Answer

Prolactin and Oestrogen

Question 9

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding physiology of menstruation?

1. LH surge precedes ovulation
2. There are two peaks in serum estradiol levels, first in follicular and second in luteal phase
3. Serum progesterone has only one peak i.e., in luteal phase

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Accepted Answer

1, 2 and 3

Answer

2 and 3 only

Answer

1 and 2 only

Answer

1 only

Question 10

Which of the following statements regarding β-Human chorionic Gonadotropin are NOT correct?

1. It is a glycoprotein hormone.
2. Serum levels increase in pregnancy, germ cell tumors and gestational trophoblastic disease
3. Its levels are same in single and multiple pregnancy
4. Both alpha and beta subunits are unique and not shared with other hormones

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

Accepted Answer

3 and 4

Answer

1, 3 and 4

Answer

2, 3 and 4

Answer

1, 2 and 3

Answer

1, 2 and 4

Answer

3 only

Reproductive Physiology — MCQs

Reproductive Physiology — MCQs

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