39095 - Obstetric Physiology and Prenatal Medicine

Academic Year 2025/2026

  • Docente: Paolo Casadio
  • Credits: 2
  • SSD: MED/40
  • Language: Italian
  • Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Midwifery (cod. 6064)

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the module, the student will be able to apply knowledge and understanding of the physiological phenomena associated with pregnancy, with particular reference to: 1) changes/adaptations to the female genital and extragenital organs and systems, identification of risk factors, and pregnancy categorization; 2) methods of diagnosis and monitoring of pregnancy, with particular reference to screening for maternal-fetal alterations and risk assessment. The student will possess the knowledge and understanding of the principles of prenatal medicine, with particular reference to prenatal diagnosis.

Course contents

The placenta and amniotic fluid

Characteristics of the three gestational trimesters

Minor symptoms and ailments of pregnancy

Modifications/adaptations of the genital and extragenital organs and systems of pregnant women

Changes in clinical and laboratory parameters during pregnancy

Metrorrhagia of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters

Nutrition during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Readings/Bibliography

Power point presentations and related bibliography used during lessons

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons with slide support

Assessment methods

The final exam aims to assess the achievement of the learning objectives. Assessment is through a written test on the syllabus topics or an oral exam.

Teaching tools

The teaching material presented in class with the use of slides will be made available on Virtuale

Office hours

See the website of Paolo Casadio