Changes in Pregnancy

1. Musculoskeletal

1.1. abdominal muscles weakness

1.2. kyphosis, cervical protraction, fwd head, lumbar lordosis

1.3. Ligament laxity, SI joint hypermobility

1.4. stress incontinence- pelvic floor dysfunction

2. Dermatological

2.1. increased pigmentation

3. Respiratory

3.1. Increase: Tidal volume, minute ventilation. TLC unchanged

3.2. hyperventilation

3.3. elevation of diaphragm, widening of thoracic cage, ribs up and out

3.4. dypnea

3.5. subcostal angle increases

4. Renal

4.1. increase kidney length

4.2. increased chances of UTI due to urinary stasis

5. Cardiovascular

5.1. increased blood volume

5.2. increase venous pressure in lower extremity

5.3. increased HR and CO, SV

5.4. Decreased Blood pressure due to venous distensibility

5.5. Increased BMR, Increased heat production

5.6. increased plasma volume

5.7. increased clotting factors (Inc risk of DVT)

6. Balance

6.1. center of gravity shift forward and up

6.2. wide base of support

7. Gastrointestinal

7.1. Nausea and vomiting

7.2. Heart burn and acidity