Ward Round Notes

  Symptoms of pregnancy Pregnancy leads to many symptoms which would be considered an illness or disease at other times. These symptoms are caused by hormonal changes which help create an optimum environment for the fetus and to support the increasing needs of the mother and child. Symptoms shown in pregnancy include anaemia, breathlessness, pelvic pain, swollen legs, increased urination, flushing, nausea, backaches, increased pigmentation, swollen or tender breast, and tiredness. Effects of fetus to the respiratory system There is an increased utilization of oxygen due to the fetus. (about 20% at term) The expanding uterus limits the movement of the maternal diaphragm. This leads to feelings of breathlessness

Fetal circulation  As a fetus’s lungs, kidneys and GI tract are not functional before birth, the fetus receives oxygen, nutrients and removes wastes via the maternal circulatory system. This is done through the placenta where the maternal blood and the fetus’ blood are bought in close contact. Due to a fetus’ different oxygen needs and supply, the fetal circulation is adapted such that unused parts of the body do not receive excess blood whist other areas are depleted. This is occurs via 3 shunts: l           Ductus venosus l           Foramen ovale l           Ductus Arteriosus