Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

- Increase in the lower extermities enlarged
- Decrease venous return to the heart increases pressure
and results in edema.
3.6.8 Plumunary system
- Capillary dilatation occurs in the respiratory route
(Nasopharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi) → make
breathing difficult through nose, elarged Uterus pushs the
diaphragm and the lungs as well.
Summary of Pulmonary changes
Changes to volume
Tidal volume increase by 35-50%
Residual volume decreased by 20%
Expiratory reserve volume decrease by 20%
So increase Tidal volume and decrease Residual vloume →
incrased alveolar ventilation by 65%.
Functional respiratory changes include
A slight incrase in respiratory rate
50% increase in minute ventilation
40% increase in minute tidal volume
Progressive increase in oxygen consumption (15-20% above
non pregnant level by term)
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