Physiological Changes in Pregnancy Flashcards
What happens to oestrogen?
Rises - produced by placenta
What happens to progesterone?
Rises - produced by placenta
What happens to thyroid hormones?
Rise in T3+4 - due to increase in thyroid-binding globulin
What happens to the anterior pituitary hormones?
Rise in
- ACTH
- Prolactin
- MSH
What does the rise in MSH cause?
MSH = melanocyte stimulating hormone
Linea nigra - line down stomach
What happens to cortisol?
Rises
What happens to aldosterone?
Rises
What happens to insulin?
Insulin resistance increases - more insulin needs to be produced
Due to rises in prolactin + cortisol
What happens to LH + FSH?
Fall - suppressed by prolactin
What happens to blood volume?
Increases - due to RAAS activation
What happens to TPR?
Falls - due to progesterone
What happens to BP?
Falls
What happens to CO?
Rises
Increase in stroke volume + HR
What happens to the respiratory system?
Increase in tidal volume and RR
In order to meet increasing fetal oxygen demands
What happens to the GI system?
Upwards displacement of stomach - causes increased pressure = reflux
Smooth muscle relaxation - due to progesterone = constipation
What happens to the renal system?
Increased blood flow to kidneys = increased GFR
Increased aldosterone = salt + water retention
Dilatation of ureters = urinary stasis
What happens to fibrinogen + clotting factors?
Increase - leads to hypercoagulable state
Increases VTE risk
What happens to plasma volume?
Increases
What is the effect of plasma volume increase?
Dilutional effect on RBCs
Increases risk of anaemia
What happens to ALP?
Increases - due to placental secretion
