Physiologic adaptations to pregnancy
Cardiovascular system
Cardiac hypertrophy
Displacement of the heart
Increased blood volume and heart rate
Supine hypotension
Increased fibrinogen and hemoglobin levels
Decreased hematocrit
Gastrointestinal system
Gum swelling
Lateral and posterior displacement of the intestines
Superior and lateral displacement of the stomach
Delayed intestinal motility and gastric and gallbladder emptying time
Constipation
Displacement of the appendix from McBurney’s point
Increased tendency of gallstone formation
Endocrine system
Increased basal metabolic rate (up 25% at term)
Increased iodine metabolism
Slight parathyroidism
Increased plasma parathyroid hormone level
Slightly enlarged pituitary gland
Increased production of prolactin
Increased cortisol level
Decreased maternal blood glucose level
Decreased insulin production in early pregnancy
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