Maternal Cardiopulmonary Adjustments in Pregnancy

Abstract

The major pregnancy-related hemodynamic changes include increased cardiac output, expanded blood
volume, and reduced systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure. These changes contribute to optimal
growth and development of the fetus and help to protect the mother from the risks of delivery, such as
hemorrhage. A good knowledge of these cardiovascular adaptations is required to correctly interpret
hemodynamic and cardiovascular tests in the gravida, to predict the effects of pregnancy on the woman
with underlying cardiac disease, and to understand how the fetus will be affected by maternal cardiac
disorders. The cardiovascular changes associated with normal pregnancy, and indeed a touch of the
respiratory functions are reviewed here. The management of specific cardiac disorders, such as acquired
and congenital heart diseases, heart failure, and arrhythmias, are also briefly discussed separately.