Alterations in physiology and anatomy during pregnancy

Pregnant women undergo profound anatomical and physiological changes so that they can cope with the increased physical and metabolic demands of their pregnancies. The cardiovascular, respiratory, haematological, renal, gastrointestinal and endocrine systems all undergo important physiological altera...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology 2013-12, Vol.27 (6), p.791-802
Main Authors: Tan, Eng Kien, MBChB (Hons, Manchester), MRCOG, Tan, Eng Loy, MBBS (Singapore), M Med (O&G) (Singapore), MRCOG
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
anatomy
Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena
Cardiovascular System - anatomy & histology
Digestive System - anatomy & histology
Digestive System Physiological Phenomena
Endocrine System - anatomy & histology
Endocrine System - physiology
endocrinology
Female
Hemodynamics - physiology
Humans
Obstetrics and Gynecology
physiology
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Complications - pathology
Pregnancy Complications - physiopathology
pregnancy high risk
Respiratory Physiological Phenomena
Respiratory System - anatomy & histology
Stroke Volume - physiology
Urogenital System - anatomy & histology
Urogenital System - physiology
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Summary:Pregnant women undergo profound anatomical and physiological changes so that they can cope with the increased physical and metabolic demands of their pregnancies. The cardiovascular, respiratory, haematological, renal, gastrointestinal and endocrine systems all undergo important physiological alterations and adaptations needed to allow development of the fetus and to allow the mother and fetus to survive the demands of childbirth. Such alterations in anatomy and physiology may cause difficulties in interpreting signs, symptoms, and biochemical investigations, making the clinical assessment of a pregnant woman inevitably confusing but challenging. Understanding these changes is important for every practicing obstetrician, as the pathological deviations from the normal physiological alterations may not be clear-cut until an adverse outcome has resulted. Only with a sound knowledge of the physiology and anatomy changes can the care of an obstetric parturient be safely optimized for a better maternal and fetal outcome.
ISSN:1521-6934
1532-1932
DOI:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2013.08.001