A nurse in a prenatal clinic is reinforcing teaching with a client about expected physiological changes during pregnancy. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is d. "I may develop discoloration on my cheeks from hormonal changes."

Choice a rationale:

• Statement: "I should expect to have burning when I urinate during the third trimester."
• Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Burning during urination is not a normal physiological change of pregnancy. It may be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is a common infection during pregnancy. If a pregnant client experiences burning during urination, she should report it to her healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.

Choice b rationale:

• Statement: "I may have an infection if I develop a dark line in the middle of my abdomen."
• Rationale: This statement is incorrect. A dark line in the middle of the abdomen, known as the linea nigra, is a normal physiological change of pregnancy. It is caused by hormonal changes that increase melanin production in the skin. The linea nigra typically appears in the second trimester and fades after delivery.

Choice c rationale:

• Statement: "I should expect my fingers and face to be swollen."
• Rationale: This statement is partially correct. Some swelling in the hands and face is common during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. This is due to fluid retention caused by hormonal changes. However, excessive swelling, particularly in the hands and face, can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. It's important to report any significant swelling to a healthcare provider.

Choice d rationale:

• Statement: "I may develop discoloration on my cheeks from hormonal changes."
• Rationale: This statement is correct. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a variety of skin changes, including melasma, which is a brownish discoloration that often appears on the cheeks, forehead, and nose. Melasma is more common in women with darker skin tones and usually fades after delivery.