MEDiscuss • Obstetrics/ Gynecology • What are some important normal changes in pregnancy?

There are so many physiological changes that take place in pregnancy. Which are the important ones that I should remember?

Common medical problems of pregnancy, such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, anaemia and hyperthyroidism.

I am not sure what are things which are given importance in your university, but I am a fresh graduate from Malaysia and these are the things which were given importance. Hope it helps.

Basic physiological changes during pregnancy

1. Changes in the Reproductive System

Uterus, Vagina & Cervix

2. Changes in Blood
- increased total blood volume by 30% : increased number and volume of RBC by 20% and plasma volume by 50 %. This accounts for physiological anemia of pregnancy because of the hemodilution. This is important because every pregnant mother is given iron supplements and this is the physiological basis behind it.

- there is also increased ESR but this is not as important

3. Cardiovascular System

- most important point here is due to the increased total blood volume, a pregnant woman will have hyper dynamic circulation. Which means there is an increased cardiac output of about 30% due the increased heart rate and stroke volume. So pregnant women with pre existing cardiac problems should be well monitored due to this change.

- there are also changes in the BP.

4. Endocrine

- hyperplasia of the thyroid gland leading to physiological goitre.
- increased adrenal hormones

5. Renal system

- increased GFR


There are other physiological changes which occur in the gastrointestinal system, respiratory system, skin, and also metabolic and biochemical changes. But these are the more important ones. Hope it helps.