GI Changes in Pregnancy

Question 1

What are the physiological changes to the gastrointestinal system during pregnancy?

Answer 1

Relaxation of gastro-oesophageal sphincter -> reflux and risk of aspiration
Reduced intestinal motility (both large and small) -> constipation and haemorrhoids
No changes in gastric emptying, until labour when it slows

Question 2

What are the physiological changes to the hepatobiliary system during pregnancy?

Answer 2

Increased ALP due to placental production (3x upper limit)

Reduced gall bladder contractile to leading to cholestasis and gallstones

Question 3

What is the weight and volume of the non-pregnant uterus?

Answer 3

40-50g

10ml

Question 4

What is the weight and volume of the term uterus?

Answer 4

1200g

5000ml

Question 5

What are the changes to carbohydrate metabolism during pregnancy?

Answer 5

Increased glycogen storage

Increased utilisation of peripheral glucose

Question 6

What are the changes to TAGs and cholesterol during pregnancy?

Answer 6

Increase in cholesterol

Increase in TAGs due to increased hepatic lipase activity an reduced lipoprotein lipase activity