BIOCHEMISTRY OF PREGNANCY Flashcards
Q: What happens to plasma volume during pregnancy?
A: Plasma volume increases by 40-50% to meet the demands of the growing fetus and placenta.
Q: How does red blood cell (RBC) mass change during pregnancy?
A: RBC mass increases by 20-30% but the increase in plasma volume is greater
Q: What is the significance of physiological anemia in pregnancy?
A: It reduces blood viscosity enhancing uteroplacental perfusion.
Q: How do coagulation factors change during pregnancy?
A: Levels of fibrinogen and clotting factors VII VIII
Q: What happens to serum albumin levels during pregnancy?
A: Serum albumin levels decrease due to hemodilution and increased protein metabolism.
Q: How does pregnancy affect renal function?
A: Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) increases by 50% leading to lower serum creatinine and urea levels.
Q: What changes occur in lipid metabolism during pregnancy?
A: Serum triglycerides cholesterol
Q: What happens to thyroid function during pregnancy?
A: Total T4 and T3 levels increase due to elevated thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) but free T4 and T3 remain normal.
Q: How does calcium homeostasis adapt in pregnancy?
A: Increased intestinal calcium absorption supports fetal skeletal development.
Q: What is the impact of pregnancy on blood glucose levels?
A: Fasting glucose levels decrease but postprandial glucose levels rise due to insulin resistance from placental hormones.
Q: What hormones contribute to insulin resistance in pregnancy?
A: Human placental lactogen (hPL) cortisol
Q: What happens to iron requirements during pregnancy?
A: Iron requirements increase significantly due to expanded maternal RBC mass and fetal iron needs.
Q: How does pregnancy affect the immune system?
A: Pregnancy induces a state of immunotolerance to prevent fetal rejection while maintaining defense against infections.
Q: What biochemical changes are associated with preeclampsia?
A: Elevated levels of uric acid decreased placental perfusion
Q: Why does serum alkaline phosphatase increase during pregnancy?
A: Due to placental production of alkaline phosphatase.
