What uterine sign is characterized by softening of the lower uterine segment and is detectable in early pregnancy?

Hegar's sign is characterized by the softening of the lower uterine segment, which is detectable during early pregnancy. This sign occurs as the uterus expands and prepares to accommodate the growing fetus. The softening is believed to be due to increased vascularity and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Healthcare providers often assess Hegar's sign during pelvic examinations early in pregnancy, and its presence can indicate certain physiological changes associated with early gestation.

Understanding this sign is crucial for healthcare practitioners as it aids in the confirmation of pregnancy. Other signs, such as Goodell's sign, refer to the softening of the cervix, while Chadwick's sign indicates a bluish discoloration of the cervix and vagina due to increased blood flow. Montgomery's tubercles are sebaceous glands that become more prominent during pregnancy, but they are not indicative of the softening of the uterine segment.