What is the term for the bluish or purplish discoloration of the vagina and cervix observed during pregnancy?

Chadwick's sign refers to the characteristic bluish or purplish discoloration of the vagina and cervix that is often observed in pregnant individuals. This sign results from increased blood flow and vascularization in the pelvic region, a physiological change that occurs as the body adapts to pregnancy. The color change is typically noticeable around the sixth to eighth week of gestation and can be used as an early indicator of pregnancy during a physical examination.

Hegar's sign, while also related to pregnancy, specifically describes the softening of the lower uterine segment, and McDonald's sign refers to the ease of flexing the body of the uterus against the cervix, neither of which pertain to the discoloration of vaginal and cervical tissues. Cullen's sign is associated with intra-abdominal bleeding and presents as bluish discoloration around the umbilicus, making it unrelated to pregnancy.