Physiology in pregnancy Flashcards
List some general changes in women during pregnancy
mechanical - metabolism - immunosuppression - reflux - oedema - breasts - fatigue - thyroid - weight gain
Describe the breast changes which occur in pregnancy
increase size and vascularity - warm, tense, tender
secondary areola
increased pigmentation of areola and nipple
Montgomery tubercles on areola
From when can colostrum fluid be expressed from the breasts?
end of month 3
Why In the supine position does the mothers CO reduce by 25%?
uterus compresses the IVC
Does vascular resistance increase or decrease?
falls
What is autotransfusion of blood in contractions?
blood from uterus to maternal circulation
Pain in labour leads to an increase in…?
catecholamines
Does CO increase more in labour or after?
after
When does the CVS usually return to normal?
by 3 months
What happens to bp post partum?
initially falls
increase day 3-7
pre pregnancy levels by 6 weeks
Is there an increase or decrease in demand for oxygen?consequences of this
increase
increase in minute ventilation and respiratory rate
decreased PCO2
Dilation of urinary collecting system more pronounced on right or left?
right
Does GFR increase or decrease?
increase
what % of pregnant women suffer from oedema?
80
Normal findings in urine
increased protein excretion
microscopic haematuria
glycosuria
