A nurse is teaching a pregnant client about the gastrointestinal changes that occur during pregnancy.

The nurse should explain that the increased progesterone levels cause which of the following effects?

Elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels.Nausea and vomiting in the morning are common symptoms of early pregnancy and are most likely due to the high levels of hCG hormone produced by the placenta.hCG levels peak around 8 to 10 weeks of gestation and then decline gradually.

Choice B is wrong because decreased gastric emptying time is not a cause of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather a consequence of hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach by the growing uterus.

Choice C is wrong because increased peristalsis of the colon is not related to nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather to constipation, which is another common symptom of pregnancy due to hormonal changes and reduced physical activity.

Choice D is wrong because decreased bile production is not a factor in nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather a possible cause of gallstones, which are more common in pregnant women due to hormonal changes and increased cholesterol levels.

Decreased gastric motility.This is because the hormone progesterone, which causes smooth muscle relaxation, often causes relaxation and slowing of digestion in the stomach and the small and large intestines.

This can lead to constipation and delayed gastric emptying.

Choice B is wrong because progesterone does not increase gastric acid secretion.In fact, progesterone may decrease acid secretion by inhibiting histamine release.

Choice C is wrong because progesterone does decrease lower esophageal sphincter tone, but this is not a direct effect on the gastrointestinal system.Rather, it is a result of the growing uterus pushing the stomach upward and causing reflux.

Choice D is wrong because progesterone does not increase intestinal absorption.In fact, progesterone may decrease intestinal absorption by reducing intestinal blood flow and slowing down transit time.