Which option correctly identifies Chadwick sign?

Which option correctly identifies Chadwick sign?

• A. Goodell sign
• B. Chadwick sign
• C. Hegar sign
• D. McDonald sign

Answer: (B)

Chadwick sign is the bluish or purplish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and vulva caused by increased pelvic vascularity in early pregnancy. This change happens because estrogen drives expanded blood flow to the genital tract, typically appearing around six to eight weeks of gestation. It’s one of the earliest observable signs of pregnancy on examination, distinguishing itself from other signs that describe tissue softness rather than color change—for example, Goodell sign (softening of the cervix) and Hegar sign (softening of the lower uterine segment). The Bluish tinge you’d see on exam is the hallmark of Chadwick sign, confirming the concept that vascular changes in early pregnancy can produce visible mucosal discoloration.

Chadwick sign is the bluish or purplish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and vulva caused by increased pelvic vascularity in early pregnancy. This change happens because estrogen drives expanded blood flow to the genital tract, typically appearing around six to eight weeks of gestation. It’s one of the earliest observable signs of pregnancy on examination, distinguishing itself from other signs that describe tissue softness rather than color change—for example, Goodell sign (softening of the cervix) and Hegar sign (softening of the lower uterine segment). The Bluish tinge you’d see on exam is the hallmark of Chadwick sign, confirming the concept that vascular changes in early pregnancy can produce visible mucosal discoloration.