Lecture 19 - A Good Pregnancy Flashcards
How does lying in a supine position affect the haemodynamic profile of the mother & fetus?
Pressure of the uterus on the vena cava reduces the venous return to the heart –> results in decreased uterine blood perfusion –> results in decreased placenta perfusion –> can compromise the fetus
What happens to circulating blood volume during pregnancy? In terms of: volume, chance of arrhythmias, SV, CO
50-70% decrease in circulating blood volume. Increased arrhythmogenicity too. Increased SV, increased CO.
Why is taking an epidural during labour good for woman who have heart defects?
Epidural acts as a vasodilator, controls BP a bit. baby often also delivered using forceps.
How is plasma volume, haemoglobin levels & platelet numbers affected during pregnancy?
Plasma volume increases, [haemoglobin] stays the same & number of platelets decreases (still remains within normal limits though)
Is there an increased or decreased risk of VTE when pregnant? What three components of Virchow’s triad are present to cause this?
Risk is 4-5x higher.
- Venous stasis
- Induced by venous dilation
- Obstruction to venous return
Are iodine levels in a mother high, low or no different? Why? What about fasting glucose?
Lower because giving a lot of iodine to baby. Fating glucose also lower.
Affect of pregnancy on kidneys:
Is sodium intake higher or lower? GFR? BF?
All higher. The increased sodium retention likely to cause oedema.
80-85% of women feel nauseous during pregnancy? An increase in what hormone is thought to be the cause of this?
Increase in hCG
What us Symphysis Pubic Dysfunction?
Collection of signs and symptoms of discomfort and pain in the pelvic area. Common in 2nd & 3rd trimester.
What are 7 common symptoms of pregnancy?
Constipation, nausea & vomiting, itching, Carpal tunnel syndrome, haemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, changes in emotional wellbeing.
