Ferguson's reflex is defined as what?

• A. Reflex of uterine contractions initiated by pressure at the cervix or vaginal walls giving moms the feeling to push
• B. Reflex triggering placental separation
• C. Reflex causing amniotic fluid release
• D. Reflex causing pain to intensify

Answer: (A)

Ferguson’s reflex is the expulsive reflex that makes contractions stronger in response to pressure from the presenting part on the cervix and vaginal walls, producing the urge to push. When the cervix and vagina are stretched during labor, sensory signals reach the brain and trigger the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary, which amplifies uterine contractions and prompts the mother to push. This mechanism helps move the baby down the birth canal. It isn’t about placental separation, rupture of membranes with amniotic fluid release, or simply increasing pain—those are separate processes.