Maternal Adaptations Of Pregnancy Flashcards
What triggers major physiological changes during pregnancy?
High levels of hormones, especially from the placenta.
By what percentage does cardiac output increase during pregnancy?
50%
What happens to stroke volume and heart rate during pregnancy?
Both increase.
How does oxygen consumption change during pregnancy?
Increases due to higher metabolic needs.
Name three key organs that experience increased blood flow during pregnancy.
- Uterus
- Kidneys
- Brain
What is the effect of pregnancy on blood pressure?
Slight drop, especially in diastolic BP.
What physiological condition can result from increased blood volume during pregnancy?
Slight anemia.
What is a normal clinical sign observed in pregnant women related to heart sounds?
Low-grade systolic murmurs and S3 heart sounds.
What is the increase in plasma volume during pregnancy?
50%
What happens to hemoglobin levels during pregnancy?
Decreases due to dilution from increased plasma.
What state does pregnancy induce regarding blood clotting?
Hypercoagulable state.
True or False: Platelet count decreases significantly during pregnancy.
False.
What changes occur in lung function during pregnancy?
- Increased tidal volume
- Increased inspiratory capacity
- Decreased residual volume
What mechanical changes occur in the respiratory system during pregnancy?
Diaphragm rises, ribs flare, and ligaments relax.
What gastrointestinal issue is commonly experienced due to slower stomach emptying during pregnancy?
Nausea and vomiting.
Fill in the blank: The weakened sphincter in the esophagus during pregnancy causes _______.
acid reflux.
What anatomical change in the kidneys increases the risk of urinary tract infections during pregnancy?
Ureters dilate.
What happens to renal plasma flow and GFR during pregnancy?
Both increase.
What is the impact on immune system function during pregnancy?
Reduced cell-mediated immunity.
What hormone levels increase to maintain pregnancy?
- Estrogen
- Progesterone
- hCG
- Prolactin
- Aldosterone
What is a clinical takeaway regarding thyroid function during pregnancy?
Screen for gestational diabetes and thyroid dysfunction.
What stimulates ductal growth in the mammary glands during pregnancy?
Estrogen.
What musculoskeletal change during pregnancy can lead to posture changes?
Lordosis.
What causes peripheral neuropathies in pregnant women?
Fluid retention.
