FULL PREPARATION: Maternity HESI Study Guide Anatomy and Physiology of Reproduction The menstrual phase varies in length in most women Between ovulation and the beginning of the next menstrual cycle, there are usually exactly 14 days. In other words, ovulations occurs 14 days before the next menstrual period Sperm live approximately 3 days (48 to 72 hours), and eggs live about 24 hours. A couple must avoid unprotected intercourse for several days before the anticipated ovulation and for 3 days after ovulation to prevent pregnancy Antepartum Nursing Care Look for signs of maternal-fetal bonding during pregnancy; for example, talking to fetus in utero, massaging abdomen, and nicknaming fetus are all healthy psychosocial activities For many women, battering (emotional or physical abuse) begins during pregnancy. Women should be assessed for abuse in private, away from themale partner, by a nurse who is familiar with local resources and knows how to determine the safety of the client. Practice determining gravidity and parity. A woman who is 6 weeks pregnant has the following maternal history: She has a healthy 2-year old daughter; She has had a miscarriage at 10 weeks; She had an elective abortion at 6 weeks, 5 years earlier; With this