For nursing maternity exams, you want to be familiar with the early signs of pregnancy. This review will cover Hegar’s Sign.
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What is Hegar’s Sign?
Hegar’s sign is an early probable sign of pregnancy named after Dr. Ernst Hegar, a German gynecologist. It refers to softening of the lower uterine segment.
When does it occur?
About 6–12 weeks of pregnancy
Where does it occur?
- In the lower uterine segment
- Located between the cervix and the uterine body
- Can be assessed during a bimanual pelvic exam
Why does it happen? (Cause)
- Increased vascularization and hormonal changes
- Leads to softening and increased compressibility of the lower uterine segment
Pregnancy Sign Type:
- Probable sign of pregnancy
- Suggests pregnancy but is NOT definitive
How is pregnancy confirmed? (Definitive signs)
- Positive hCG pregnancy test (urine or blood)
- Ultrasound visualization of fetus
- Detection of fetal heartbeat
NCLEX Key Points:
- Occurs at 6–12 weeks
- Softening of lower uterine segment
- Detected via bimanual exam
- Probable (not diagnostic) sign of pregnancy
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