MRCOG Part 1: Physiology - Essential Study Guide

This is your essential guide to the Physiology section of the MRCOG Part 1 exam. We built it from our own experience of sitting the exam, the RCOG syllabus and the official reading list. It lists the physiology concepts most often tested, section by section.

Why Physiology matters in MRCOG Part 1

Physiology forms the foundation for understanding how the human body functions, particularly in the context of obstetrics and gynaecology. For the MRCOG Part 1, you'll need a strong grasp of the physiological processes involved in reproduction, pregnancy, and fetal development.

Physiology syllabus, section by section

IReproductive Physiology

Female Reproductive Physiology

The Ovarian and Menstrual Cycles
  • Stages of follicle development, roles of granulosa and theca cells
  • Hormonal control (FSH, LH, oestrogen, progesterone, inhibin)
  • Ovulation: LH surge, oocyte maturation
  • Corpus luteum formation and function
  • Cyclical changes in the endometrium and cervix
Fertilization
  • Sperm penetration sequence
Menopause
  • Ovarian function decline
  • Hormonal changes

Male Reproductive Physiology

Spermatogenesis
  • Stages of sperm development
  • Roles of Sertoli and Leydig cells
  • Hormonal control (FSH, LH, testosterone)

IIPhysiological Changes in Pregnancy

Maternal Adaptations

Cardiovascular System
  • Changes in blood volume, cardiac output, heart rate, peripheral vascular resistance
  • Supine hypotensive syndrome
  • Distribution of increased cardiac output at term
Respiratory System
  • Changes in lung volumes (tidal volume, functional residual capacity), ventilation
  • Increased oxygen consumption
  • Changes in FEV1 and total lung capacity
Renal System
  • Changes in renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate
  • Changes in electrolyte balance (sodium, calcium)
  • Fetal urine contribution to amniotic fluid
Gastrointestinal System
  • Changes in motility, gallbladder function, liver function
  • Physiological function of bile salts

IIIFetal Physiology

Fetal Systems

Cardiovascular System
  • Unique features of fetal circulation (ductus venosus, foramen ovale, ductus arteriosus)
Respiratory System
  • Stages of lung development, including the formation of alveoli
  • Importance of surfactant production
Haematological System
  • Fetal haemoglobin (HbF), subunit composition
  • HbF's higher oxygen affinity compared to adult haemoglobin
Renal System
  • Role of the fetal kidneys in urine production and contribution to amniotic fluid volume

IVOther Relevant Physiological Concepts

General Physiology

Electrolyte Imbalances
  • Effects of hypokalemia
  • Effects of hyperkalaemia
Calcium Homeostasis
  • Know where most of the body's calcium is stored
  • Know the way calcium is regulated in the body

How to master Physiology

  • Review: work through each section systematically and understand the core concepts before moving on.
  • Active learning: draw diagrams, build mind maps and explain concepts to someone else.
  • Test yourself: try our free practice questions, then work through the physiology questions in the Uterio question bank.

Additional resources