Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, and Placental Biology — WACS Viva & Clinical Scenarios (Basic Sciences in Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Exam-style reproductive physiology, endocrinology, and placental biology viva scenarios with examiner probes and model answers for Obstetrics & Gynaecology…

Scenarios covered

• SCENARIO 1: Describe the two-cell, two-gonadotrophin model of ovarian steroidogenesis. Explain how gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulsatility and feedback loops regulate the follicular phase, mid-cycle surge, and luteal phase of the ovarian cycle.
• SCENARIO 2: Detail the physiological mechanisms of blastocyst implantation and trophoblastic invasion. Outline the biphasic remodelling of maternal spiral arteries and explain the functional classification of placental membrane transport mechanisms.
• SCENARIO 3: Describe the endocrine collaboration of the feto-placental unit in the synthesis of oestriol and progesterone. Contrast the biochemical synthesis, maternal clearance, and physiological roles of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and human placental lactogen (hPL).
• SCENARIO 4: Outline the unique anatomical shunts and physiological dynamics of the fetal circulation. Explain the changes that occur during the cardiopulmonary transition at birth, and detail the mechanisms regulating amniotic fluid volume throughout gestation.
• SCENARIO 5: Systematically analyze the maternal cardiovascular, haematological, and respiratory adaptations to normal singleton pregnancy. Detail the normal quantitative alterations in blood volume, systemic vascular resistance, arterial blood gases, and renal clearance parameters.