Name: Lois Danielle C.

Reyes BSN3

NCM 116 – 9066 Date: January 21, 2022

In A Nutshell – ULO 1

Do you think that changes related to sexuality and reproductive status can result from problems of the
GI system?Why or why not?

Yes, I think that the changes that are related to sexuality and reproductive status can lead to
problems in the GI system. As we all now, the GI tract is the passageway wherein the food that we eat
goes from our mouth to our stomach and to our small and large intestines. The nutrients and the fluids
that come from the foods that we eat are absorbed in the GI tract. The GI tract helps to maintain our
body health. When we talk about the changes in our sexuality and our reproductive status for example
pregnancy, the uterus is expanding, and this might affect our digestive system. As our uterus develops, it
can push or block some areas in the digestive tract. Progesterone, a hormone that relaxes smooth
muscles, promotes relaxation and slowing of digestion not only in our stomach, but also in our small and
large intestine, and the uterus. Another organ that will be affected is the gallbladder where emptying is
delayed, which can increase the possibility of gallstone formation. There are a lot of discomforts in the
digestive system because of one’s pregnancy. Examples of these are nausea and vomiting or most
commonly known as morning sickness and constipation. These discomforts are related to the digestive
system’s relaxed tone and slowed function. Other than that, pregnant women, because of a growing
baby inside them, they experience changes in their appetite. For example, their appetite increases, and
sometimes they’re craving different foods. So yes, the changes in our sexuality and reproductive status
can result in problems of our GI system.