What sensation may relaxin release cause in pregnancy?

• A. Can create a loose feeling like slipping
• B. Causes a tight jaw
• C. Increases appetite
• D. Produces numbness in the hands

Answer: (A)

Relaxin relaxes and loosens ligaments and joints in pregnancy to prepare the pelvis for childbirth. This increased joint laxity can feel like a loose sensation or slipping, especially around the pelvic area. That’s why a loose, slipping feeling best describes what relaxin release may cause.

The other sensations aren’t typical direct effects of relaxin. A tight jaw isn’t linked to relaxin’s action on connective tissue, and while numbness in the hands can occur in pregnancy, it’s usually due to swelling or nerve compression rather than relaxin-induced laxity. Appetite changes aren’t a primary result of relaxin either.