Systemic changes during pregnancy

Urinary system -
Renal blood flow increased by as much as 70-80%. Kidney
enlarge in length by 1%. Renal plasma flow is increased by
50-75% maximum by 16th week and is maintained until 34 week.
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is increased by 50% all through
pregnancy. Increased GFR causes reduction in maternal plasma
level of creatinine. In late pregnancy, the bladder mucosa become
edematous due to venous and lymphatic obstruction specially in
primary gravida. Increased frequency of micturition is noticed at
6-8 weeks of pregnancy which subside after 12 week.


Alimentary system -
The gums become congested and spongy. Muscle tone and motility
of entire gastrointestinal tract are diminished due to high progesterone
level. Cardiac sphincter is relaxed and regurgitation of acid, gastric
content into the esophagus (This is known as Morning sickness),
may produce esophagitis and heart burn. Around 4-8 week most
woman start complaining of nausea and vomiting witch may
continued until about 14-16 week.


Liver and gall bladder - 
There is no histological changes in liver cells but the functions are
depressed. There is marked atonicity of gall bladder. This, together
will high blood cholesterol level during pregnant which can lead to
gall stone.


Nervous system - 
Some Temperamental changes are found during pregnancy and
in the puerperium. Nausea, vomiting, mental irritability and
sleeplessness are probably due to some psychological background.
Postpartum blues, depression or psychosis may develop in a
susceptible individual.