Physiological Changes in Pregnancy

Question 1

What is the normal weight gain during pregnancy?

Answer 1

10-15kg

Question 2

What are the normal changes in the genital tract during pregnancy?

Answer 2

1. Uterus weight increases from 50g to 1kg
2. Muscle hypertrophy
3. Cervix softens, starts to efface late T3

Question 3

What are the normal changes in blood during pregnancy?

Answer 3

1. Blood volume increases 50% - 8.5L gain in water
2. Red cell mass increase
3. Hb concentration decreases
4. WCC increases

Question 4

What are the normal changes in circulation during pregnancy?

Answer 4

1. Cardiac output increases by 40%
2. Peripheral resistance decreases by 50%
3. Spider naevi
4. Small mid-pregnancy fall in BP

Question 5

What are the normal changes in the lungs during pregnancy?

Answer 5

1. Tidal volume increases by 40%

2. No change in respiratory rate

Question 6

What is the effect of pregnancy on the kidneys, the gut, and the thyroid gland?

Answer 6

1. GFR 40% increase, creatinine/urea decrease
2. Reduced gut motility
3. Thyroid enlargement