Chapter 36, Problem 10A

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The hormonal basis of why a woman cannot get pregnant again while she is pregnant.

Introduction:

Pregnancy happens when a sperm fertilizes an egg after it is released during ovulation. The fertilized egg then heads down to the womb, where it is placed. A conception ends in successful implantation. A maximum pregnancy lasts on average 40 weeks.

Explanation of Solution

The levels of hormone including estrogens, progesterone, cortisol, prolactin, and thyroxine during pregnancy increase multiple folds in the maternal blood to help fetal development, metabolism, and birth. This however contributes to the inhibition of gonadotropins like FSH nad LH and block ovulation.

Conclusion

Thus, this is the reason a woman cannot get pregnant again while she is pregnant.