How the position of the organs changes during pregnancy. How are the internal organs located during pregnancy? Breasts during pregnancy

02.05.2019

Carrying and giving birth is normal physiological process for every woman, and nature has provided everything for the fulfillment of this destiny by a woman from the moment a man appeared on earth.

A complex female body is designed in such a way that it can function normally even during the period when another person is born and develops inside it. After the conception of a child, inevitable adaptation processes take place in all organs and systems of a woman, allowing them to adapt to the new state and ensure the safety and normal development of the fetus.

It is for this reason that, from the moment of pregnancy, a woman begins to feel different kind changes in sensations associated with the restructuring of the whole organism, because all organs begin to work in a new mode for them. Doctors classify such sensations during pregnancy as normal, except in cases where a woman has pathological conditions.

When do the first changes appear?

The first significant changes that occur in a woman's body after conception affect her genitals. The fetus is fixed in the uterus and begins to gradually increase in size, and with it the uterus begins to expand.

By the end of pregnancy, the size of the uterus increases tenfold in comparison with its normal state. The weight of the uterus before pregnancy averages 50 g, while at the end of the gestation period, it can weigh more than a kilogram.

The uterus increases not only in its weight, but also in volume, and by the onset of childbirth, its size can be 550 times larger than it was before conception. In addition, the number of muscle fibers in the uterus increases significantly and its ligaments lengthen, which allows the fetus to develop normally.

Not only the uterus grows during pregnancy, but also the ovaries of a woman, since one of them appears corpus luteum, which produces specific hormones that ensure the normal course of pregnancy.

The mucous membrane of the vagina of a pregnant woman becomes looser, and its walls are more elastic, the same changes occur with the external genitalia (large and small labia). Loosening of tissues and mucous membranes is necessary so that during childbirth the child can easily pass through the birth canal.

Physiological changes during pregnancy

Physiological changes in the genitals of a woman associated with the onset and development of pregnancy entail significant changes in the functioning of the digestive and urinary systems. Many pregnant women notice changes in their own taste preferences (desire to eat sour or salty foods) and an increase in appetite, as well as cravings for unusual substances (desire to eat clay, chalk, soap).

Very often during pregnancy in women there is also a perversion of smell. These changes are due to the fact that the tone of the vagus nerve, which is responsible for the regulation of the work of many internal organs, changes significantly. In addition, the growing and increasing in volume of the uterus begins to put pressure on the intestines and under its pressure it shifts to the sides and up, and its tone is significantly reduced.

The displacement of the intestine and the pressure on it of the fetus very often causes constipation in pregnant women. Also during pregnancy, women often experience heartburn caused by the pressure of the fetus on the stomach. In order to prevent this unpleasant phenomenon, it is necessary to regularly consume non-carbonated mineral water and not eat before bedtime.

Maca's pressure on the bladder leads to frequent urination during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus also leads to a displacement of the liver, sideways and upwards, and in this position, the outflow of bile from it is very difficult, which can lead to hepatic colic.

In addition, with the onset of pregnancy, an increased load is placed on the liver, since now it not only cleanses the woman’s body of decay products, but also neutralizes toxins that can harm the baby. Along with the liver, the work of the kidneys is also significantly enhanced.

Causes of changes in the location of organs

An increased load is also placed on the cardiovascular system of a pregnant woman, because during the period of growth and development of the fetus, it must be provided enough nutrients and oxygen, for which a woman's heart has to work hard.

The volume of blood circulating in a woman's body also increases during pregnancy, because in her body now there is new circle blood circulation - placental. Such changes cause an increase in the mass of the heart muscles and an increase in heart rate, and by the second half of pregnancy, the heart begins to beat at a frequency of 75-90 beats per minute.

Along with the changes heart rate blood pressure indicators can also change, and in the first half of pregnancy it can be reduced, and starting from the second half of pregnancy - increased. During pregnancy, doctors carefully monitor a woman's blood pressure readings, as they may indicate complications during pregnancy.

In order to provide the fetus with a sufficient amount of oxygen, it is necessary to work hard and lungs, and in conditions of pressure on the diaphragm of the growing uterus. Pregnancy also brings changes to the functioning of the respiratory system.

That is why the breathing of a woman carrying a child becomes more frequent and deep. In addition, during pregnancy, the volume of the lungs increases, as their membrane becomes juicier, and the mucous membrane of the bronchi becomes swollen.

By the end of pregnancy, changes in the functioning of the respiratory system and difficult gas exchange significantly increase the risk of developing inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system and respiratory tract. Therefore, during pregnancy it is recommended to do special breathing exercises, contributing to the flow of oxygen into the body of a pregnant woman.

Pregnancy is a normal (physiological) process that occurs in a woman's body during prenatal development fetus. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes profound transformations. With the normal development of pregnancy, all the changes that take place in the body of a woman are aimed at creating a harmonious relationship between the mother's body and the body. developing fetus. Also, from the very first days of pregnancy, the body of a pregnant woman begins to prepare for future childbirth and breastfeeding.

Below we take a closer look at the most important changes in the body of a woman during pregnancy, as well as their importance for normal evolution of pregnancy itself, childbirth and the period of breastfeeding.

Body systems that undergo changes during pregnancy
From the very first days of pregnancy, the body of a pregnant woman undergoes profound transformations. These transformations are the result of the coordinated work of almost all body systems, as well as the result of the interaction of the mother's body with the child's body.

Changes in the nervous and endocrine systems
The nervous and endocrine systems play the main roles in the implementation of the transformations of the female body during pregnancy.

At the level central nervous system(brain and spinal cord), complex nervous mechanisms are launched aimed at maintaining the constancy of substances in the body of a pregnant woman necessary for normal development fetus. For example, it has been noted that up to the 39th week of pregnancy, impulses coming from the sensitive receptors of the uterus are blocked at the level spinal cord, which allows the preservation of pregnancy and prevents premature birth. Changes in the central nervous system lead to some changes in the mood and behavior of a pregnant woman. Especially in the first weeks of pregnancy, a woman may notice increased irritability, fatigue, drowsiness - all these are defense mechanisms developed by the central nervous system to prevent excessive fatigue of a pregnant woman. Changes in smell (intolerance to certain odors), taste and gastronomic preferences, as well as incoming nausea, vomiting and dizziness are associated with a change in the tone of the vagus nerve (the nerve that regulates the functioning of most of the internal organs).

It is well known that the nervous and endocrine systems are in close interaction. This interaction is especially clear during pregnancy, the normal course of which is the result of the interaction of these two systems. The inclusion of the endocrine system in the development of pregnancy takes place even before the moment of fertilization. The normal functioning of the hypothalamus (the center of the brain responsible for the transmission of nerve signals from the nervous system to the endocrine system), the pituitary gland (the central human endocrine gland) and the ovaries (the gonads of the woman's body) make possible development eggs and prepare the female reproductive system for fertilization. From the first days of pregnancy until the 10th week, the development of pregnancy is supported by hormones secreted by the ovaries. During this period, there is intensive growth fetal placenta. The placenta, as you know, in addition to the role of nutrition of the fetus, also carries out the synthesis of hormones necessary for the normal development of pregnancy. The main hormone of the placenta is estriol (it is also called the protector of pregnancy). This hormone stimulates the development of blood vessels and improves the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus.

In smaller quantities, the placenta synthesizes estrone and estradiol. Under the influence of these hormones, the genital organs of a pregnant woman grow: the uterus, vagina, mammary glands, an increase in the volume of circulating blood in the mother's body (to improve the nutrition of the fetus). In case of violation of the functioning of the placenta (during various diseases mother or fetus), may occur abortion or impaired fetal development (underdevelopment).

Also, the placenta synthesizes progesterone, which stimulates the development of the mammary glands and prepares them for lactation. Under the action of progesterone, the muscles of the uterus and intestines relax. Progesterone has an inhibitory effect on the nervous system, determining the drowsiness and fatigue described above. Importance has the effect of progesterone on the development of adipose tissue of a pregnant woman. The storage of nutrients in adipose tissue during pregnancy is necessary to ensure fetal nutrition and milk production in the postpartum period.

In addition to hormones synthesized in the placenta, important role play various hormones produced by the endocrine system of the mother's body. It should be noted that on early stages development, the body of the fetus is not able to synthesize many hormones, but they come to it from the mother's body. So, for example, extremely an important factor fetal development are thyroid hormones. These hormones stimulate bone formation, brain growth and development, and energy production. To meet the needs of the fetus, the mother's body synthesizes large amounts of hormones.

Various incoming changes, such as skin pigmentation and an increase in the width of bones and facial contours, occur due to the action of the pituitary gland of a pregnant woman, which synthesizes melanotropin (a hormone that stimulates the production of skin pigment) and somatotropin (a hormone that stimulates body growth).

Changes in the metabolic process
Metabolic changes during pregnancy are aimed at meeting the needs of the developing fetus. It is clear that for normal course metabolism, and, consequently, the development of the fetus requires the normal functioning of metabolic processes in the mother's body.

To increase the amount of assimilated food, the mother's body produces more digestive enzymes. At the level of the lungs, oxygen saturation increases. This is mainly due to an increase in the number of red blood cells, and an increase in the content of hemoglobin in them.

In the blood of a pregnant woman, there is an increase in the concentration of glucose and insulin, as well as fatty acids, proteins and amino acids. All these nutrients pass through the placenta into the blood of the fetus, thereby providing the developing organism with material for growth and development.

It is important to change the metabolism of minerals in the body of a pregnant woman. There is an increase in the concentration in the blood of many minerals: iron, calcium, phosphorus, copper, cobalt, magnesium. Like nutrients, these elements enter the blood of the fetus through the placenta and are used by the growing body for development.

During pregnancy, the woman's body's need for vitamins increases. This is due to the intensification of metabolic processes, both in the body of a pregnant woman, and with the fact that part of the vitamins from the mother's body passes into the body of the hearth and is used by them for their own development.

Changes in internal organs during pregnancy
During pregnancy, many internal organs undergoing significant restructuring. These changes are adaptive in nature, and, in most cases, are short-lived and completely disappear after childbirth.

The cardiovascular system mothers during pregnancy are forced to pump more blood to ensure an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. In this regard, during pregnancy, the thickness and strength of the heart muscles increase, the pulse and the amount of blood pumped by the heart in one minute increase. In addition, the volume of circulating blood increases. In some cases, blood pressure increases. The tone of blood vessels during pregnancy decreases, which creates favorable conditions for increased supply of tissues with nutrients and oxygen.

All of the above changes in the cardiovascular system completely disappear after childbirth.

Respiratory system works hard during pregnancy. The respiratory rate increases. This is due to an increase in the need of the mother and fetus for oxygen, as well as in limiting the respiratory movements of the diaphragm due to an increase in the size of the uterus, which occupies a significant space. abdominal cavity.

The most significant changes, however, occur in the genitals of a pregnant woman. These changes prepare the woman's reproductive system for childbirth and breastfeeding.

Uterus pregnant woman increases significantly in size. Its mass increases from 50 g - at the beginning of pregnancy to 1200 g - at the end of pregnancy. The volume of the uterine cavity by the end of pregnancy increases by more than 500 times! The blood supply to the uterus is greatly increased. In the walls of the uterus, the number of muscle fibers increases. Cervix filled with thick mucus that clogs the cavity of the cervical canal. The fallopian tubes and ovaries also increase in size. In one of the ovaries, there is a "corpus luteum of pregnancy" - a place for the synthesis of hormones that support pregnancy.

The walls of the vagina loosen, become more elastic.

external genitalia(small and large labia), also increase in size and become more elastic. The tissues of the perineum are loosened. In addition, there is an increase in mobility in the joints of the pelvis and a divergence pubic bones. The changes in the genital tract described above are of extremely important physiological significance for childbirth. Loosening the walls, increasing the mobility and elasticity of the genital tract increases their throughput and facilitates the movement of the fetus through them during childbirth.

Leather in the genital area and along the midline of the abdomen, it usually becomes darker in color. Sometimes "stretch marks" (striae gravidarum) form on the skin of the lateral parts of the abdomen, which turn into whitish stripes after childbirth.

Milk glands increase in size, become more elastic, tense. When pressing on the nipple, colostrum (first milk) is released.

The body weight of a pregnant woman increases in size. Normal weight gain at the end of pregnancy is 10-12 kg. Or 12-14% of the body weight of a pregnant woman.

All the changes described above that occur during pregnancy should be distinguished from the signs of the so-called "imaginary" or "false pregnancy". A false pregnancy occurs when a non-pregnant woman is convinced that she is pregnant. This situation is observed in some cases in patients with mental or endocrine disorders. At the same time, the power of self-hypnosis of a woman is so great that there are some physiological changes characteristic of a real pregnancy: an increase in the mammary glands, the appearance of colostrum, the disappearance of menstruation. Examination of the patient helps to establish the diagnosis and recognize false pregnancy. It is also important to recognize a false pregnancy from a simulated pregnancy, in which a woman knows that she is not pregnant, but based on some considerations, she tries to convince others of the opposite.

Bibliography:

Kokhanevich E.V. Topical issues Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, M Triada-X, 2006
Savelyeva G.M. Obstetrics, Medicine, M., 2000
Carr F. Obstetrics, gynecology and women's health, MEDpress-inform 2005

Pain of a paroxysmal nature in the lower abdomen or in iliac region can talk about problems with the intestines. In pregnant women, such problems occur in all trimesters different reasons. You should not let the process go by itself - a doctor's consultation will help return good health, and the right therapy will be the key full development and health of the future baby.

The intestine and its functions

The intestine performs several important functions in the body. It is located in the middle and lower abdomen, its structure is very complex. This part of the digestive system ensures the absorption of nutrients, the absorption of vitamins. Along the way, they produce the necessary digestive enzymes. Next milestone- excretion of waste in the form of feces.

In the intestine there are colonies of microorganisms that provide the appropriate stage of digestion of food, including lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria supply the body with lactose, B vitamins, and also produce ethanol. With their help, the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Photo of human intestine

Need to maintain a good balance intestinal microflora because the baby does not have its own bacteria in the womb. He receives them from his mother during childbirth and while breastfeeding. During pregnancy, many women suffer from dysbacteriosis, which also affects the health of the unborn baby.

Location of organs during pregnancy

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Internal organs during pregnancy experience increased stress. The hormonal background is actively changing, and this is reflected in the functioning of all body systems. The uterus is enlarged: already at the 4th week it reaches the size chicken egg, and later extends beyond the pelvic bones. The location of the organs is shifted, which sometimes causes pain in the stomach.

With the development of the fetus, the anatomy of a woman is changing more and more. The need for oxygen increases, the lungs process a larger volume of air. Breathing quickens, but the hormone progesterone regulates the functioning of the bronchi, and this allows you to avoid shortness of breath at least for early dates. In the second and third trimesters, the diaphragm shifts, causing breathing to become more frequent and shallow.

The fetus takes up more and more space in the abdominal cavity, and the gallbladder, bladder, and kidneys experience more and more pressure. The liver is shifted to the side and above, the normal flow of bile is difficult, this leads to the appearance of colic. In the tissues of the uterus, the number of vessels supplying the fetus with blood increases, the load on the heart muscle increases, its volume increases.

The stomach and intestines also shift from their usual places. In the first trimester, they begin to rise up, a side effect of which is the entry of gastric juice into the esophagus. Before childbirth, the intestines move apart, and the uterus descends. Gases accumulate in the intestines, a feeling of fullness, soreness, and impaired defecation may appear.

How does pregnancy affect the intestines?

During pregnancy due to changes hormonal background and displacement of internal organs, the work of the intestine is complicated. The amount of microflora decreases, women are tormented by accumulations of gases and spasmodic pains. Often, fermentation occurs in the intestines, which intensifies unpleasant manifestations. A diet during the period of expectation of a child does not mean a reduction in calories, but the inclusion in the menu of products containing everything necessary for the mother and fetus useful material. Balanced diet allows you to normalize the balance of bifidus and lactobacilli in the intestine, to improve digestion.

In early pregnancy, when the fertilized egg moves to the place where it attaches to the wall of the uterus, women experience abdominal pain. Further discomfort causes the growth of the fetus, due to which the uterus presses on the intestines. At the same time, it pricks in the lower abdomen, sometimes even minor bloody issues. If the bleeding does not stop, medical attention is needed. Spasms, a feeling of pressure, and prolonged constipation speak of a deterioration in the condition.

Pain in the intestines: what is the reason?

In order to successfully deal with pain in the intestines, it is necessary to establish its cause. In addition to natural compression due to developing pregnancy, a woman can suffer from a number of diseases, both existing before conception and developed after it. Violations of peristalsis can be associated with both physiological causes and infection. For example, the hormone progesterone, the amount of which is significantly increased at this time, reduces the level of peristalsis.

Physiological changes in the body of a pregnant woman

In order for the uterus to grow and give room for the development of the fetus, muscle tone decreased in the body. This is necessary for the child, but bad for the intestines, which become "lazy". Digestion worsens, constipation occurs more often, gas formation torments, intestines hurt.

Toward the end of pregnancy, the uterus is already quite large, it puts pressure on the organs that are located nearby. Their blood supply is disturbed, functioning is complicated. Women are tormented by grumbling in the stomach, colic and bloating. Expectant mothers are forced to change their diet, eat unusual foods, which also causes indigestion. At the same time, the work of all digestive organs worsens, in particular the pancreas, liver, spleen.

Infectious lesions

In cases where pain in the intestines is accompanied by diarrhea, fever, nausea or vomiting, infection is likely. The disease can be caused by viruses or bacteria and has nothing to do with pregnancy. This may appear as:

dysentery;
salmonellosis;
rotavirus infection;
enterovirus infection;
"conquered diseases" - cholera, typhoid fever - brought from foreign trips.

Infectious diseases during pregnancy are very dangerous and threaten to terminate the pregnancy. In this case, you must immediately call a doctor and take supporting measures- often drink water in small portions, take rehydration drugs, cleanse the digestive system with sorbents, or activated carbon. The doctor will prescribe antimicrobials, recommend rehabilitation therapy and diet.

Neoplasms of various etiologies

Pregnancy puts everything into action hidden reserves organism, but at the same time, latent diseases are activated. Due to a decrease in immunity and hormonal changes, pathologies that a woman did not know about before can also appear. One of the most dangerous is the appearance and activation of neoplasms. Polyps can appear in the intestines, which, when enlarged, cause regular pain.

Unfortunately, surgical treatment such diseases during pregnancy is undesirable. Surgical intervention in the pelvic area helps to increase the tone of the uterus and can provoke a miscarriage. Treatment is carried out without delay in cases where the threat to a woman's life outweighs the possible risks. In the presence of tumors, only supportive therapy is indicated.

Colitis or enterocolitis

Pain in the abdomen can be caused directly by diseases gastrointestinal tract. With an increased load that falls on the intestines during pregnancy, the manifestations of colitis, enterocolitis or Crohn's disease increase. These states are:

severe pain in the iliac region;
aching or stabbing pain near the navel;
increased gas formation, flatulence;
the appearance of blood, mucus or even pus in the stool;
frequent constipation or diarrhea.

In the presence of a serious illness, the pain does not stop at night. Crohn's disease is accompanied high temperature. With constant constipation, anal fissures may appear, which will definitely worsen during childbirth. The appearance of hemorrhoids is likely in case of difficult or prolonged childbirth. With diarrhea, a woman suffers from dehydration, which threatens the health of the fetus.

When should you consult a doctor?

If bowel problems are regular, the doctor will explain what a woman should do. Initially, you should visit your gynecologist, who will write out referrals for a full examination or suggest hospitalization in order to maintain the pregnancy. A gastroenterologist deals with diseases of the digestive system, but consultation with a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neonatologist may be required.

Some of the problems with the intestines can be resolved by adjusting the menu and using traditional medicine methods. Herbal decoctions will help improve digestion, relieve anxiety, get rid of constipation. However, even these treatments should be discussed with your doctor, as many medicinal plants are contraindicated during pregnancy, in particular, a decoction of raspberry leaves can provoke spasms of the muscles of the uterus.

In the presence of chronic diseases Intestinal doctors will help you choose during pregnancy those drugs that are not capable of harming the baby. To improve digestion, pregnant women are recommended long-term hiking and moderate physical activity. On special courses they master fitness for expectant mothers. All this supports the physiology of the digestive system, promotes better digestion of food and the timely removal of waste from the body.

It is hard not to notice that a woman waiting for the birth of an heir is changing. But these changes are not only external. What happens inside the body? How do individual organs and systems of a woman react to the birth of a new life? Is the load too big? Let's talk about this now.

"Strength test" and weight gain

From the first days, the fetus needs oxygen and nutrients. The mother's body itself begins to gradually prepare for childbirth and breastfeeding babies. New tasks affect almost the entire body of the mother: the structure of organs during pregnancy changes somewhat, they expand and functionality. These changes are programmed by nature, but this does not make them less tangible. The load on the mother’s body increases significantly, becoming a kind of “strength test”. Those organs that used to work on the verge of normal may fail. Having supported the mother's body in time, we get a certain margin of safety for the fetus.

Not only the location of organs during pregnancy changes, but also body weight, an increase of 10-12 kg for all 9 months is considered the norm. But the initial indicators should also be taken into account, first of all, BMI - body mass index, that is, a harmonious ratio of weight and height.

Breasts and genitals during pregnancy

The most pronounced changes are noted in the genital system future mother. The genital organs during pregnancy are transformed according to the growth of the embryo. First of all, this is noticeable in the example of the uterus, which not only constantly increases in size, but also changes its shape from pear-shaped in the first weeks to rounded, and then ovoid. Mucus accumulates in the cervix, and it is no coincidence: later it will help the baby move more easily through the birth canal. Vascular system The uterus is also undergoing changes, it is replenished with new large blood vessels, which significantly improves the process of supplying the placenta with nutrients and oxygen. The ovaries enlarge and change position.

Changes in the mammary glands are a response to the need to prepare for future lactation. They occur in parallel with hormonal changes, leading to an increase in the production of such significant hormones as progesterone, prolactin, and estrogen. By the end of the term, the mammary gland begins to produce colostrum.

Skeleton and muscular system

Not only the internal organs are rebuilt during pregnancy. The skeletal system of a pregnant woman is affected by an increase in the concentration of relaxin and progesterone in the blood, and these hormones, in turn, contribute to the process of calcium leaching. This microelement is not just taken from the mother's skeleton, calcium is used to form the bone tissue of the fetus. At the same time, another physiological response: the pelvic bones and their joints become more elastic, which contributes to the non-traumatic progress of the child through the birth canal. The danger is the leaching of calcium from the spine and bones of the foot. To avoid flat feet, it is important to choose the right shoes: with low heels, with arch support. And wearing a bandage and special gymnastics will help the spine.

The cardiovascular system

During the period of bearing a child, the volume of blood in the vessels of a woman increases significantly: by one and a half liters. Accordingly, the intensity of the cardiovascular system also increases. The pulse becomes faster, the contraction of the heart is forced to throw more blood into the aorta. The venous system is most vulnerable in given period. Frequent complication becomes varicose veins veins, and not only because of the increasing weight load on the lower limbs.

A significant role is played by the deformation of the inferior vena cava, which is responsible for collecting blood from the uterus, pelvic organs and legs. This vessel is located to the right of the spine, and when a woman sleeps on her back, it is compressed. The greater the body weight, the stronger the circulatory disturbance in the organs listed above. That is why expectant mothers are not recommended to sleep in the supine position, but the use of a pillow placed under the legs contributes to freer blood flow. In addition, the increase in the mass of erythrocytes somewhat lags behind the overall increase in blood volume, while blood viscosity decreases. To improve the composition of the blood, mothers are prescribed iron supplements.

Respiratory, digestive and other systems

The development of the fetus requires more and more oxygen, so the volume of air inhaled by a woman increases. Breathing quickens, but this is not critical for the mother's body, since progesterone relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchial walls, which causes the airways to become wider.

The location of the organs changes somewhat during pregnancy due to the pressure of the fetus on the abdominal cavity. But it is not the only reason the changes taking place. Progesterone, which reduces the level of intestinal motility, has a serious effect on the digestive organs. In parallel, the glands begin to secrete more saliva, and the concentration of hydrochloric acid decreases. This manifests itself in the appearance of heartburn and a tendency to constipation. Some failures occur and the functionality of the bile and Bladder, kidneys, but they are also temporary.

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From the very moment of pregnancy, the mother's central nervous system begins to receive a stream of nerve impulses from receptors (sensitive nerve endings) uterus, growing fetal egg. The impact of this stream of impulses inhibits the cerebral cortex and subcortical structures, which leads to drowsiness in pregnant women. This is not only the result of the action of receptors, but also the influence of progesterone, aimed at maintaining pregnancy. This is a “hint” to the body that the life that has arisen inside it must be protected. Pregnant women develop a certain detachment, a “look inside themselves”. For some, the intellect even slows down a little, reading is difficult, solving crossword puzzles. Emotional lability, slight resentment, tearfulness are also observed, memory and memorization suffer. Therefore, the learning ability of pregnant women is deteriorating.

These violations are typical for 1-11 trimesters of pregnancy. Then all this gradually disappears. All before childbirth nervous system is activated, the body of the pregnant woman wakes up, as it were, the tone of the spinal cord and the nervous elements of the uterus increases, which contributes to the onset labor activity.

Changes in the cardiovascular system in a woman's body during pregnancy

The mother's blood circulation also undergoes significant changes to ensure the intensity of oxygen and nutrient delivery necessary for the fetus and the removal of metabolic products.

The volume of circulating blood increases, even in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the future, it increases, reaching a maximum by the 36th week. The volume of circulating blood in this period is increased by 30-50% of the initial volume, before pregnancy. Gradually, there is a predominant increase in the volume of blood plasma and, to a much lesser extent, in the cellular elements of the blood. There is some blood thinning, hydremia, which ensures its better fluidity. This improves the passage of blood through the vessels of the placenta and other vital organs - the kidneys, liver, brain. In this case, the so-called physiological anemia occurs - a decrease in hemoglobin from 130 g / l to 110 g / l. At the end of the 1st and the beginning of the 2nd trimester, the uteroplacental circulation is formed. Although the blood of the mother and fetus does not mix, but the mutual influence is confirmed. Changes in the circulation in the uterus affect the circulation in the placenta and the condition of the fetus, and vice versa. The vessels of the uterus and placenta have low resistance to blood flow, blood circulation is regulated passively, due to fluctuations in blood pressure in the mother. Walls smallest vessels- the capillaries of the uterus and placenta become easily permeable to water, salts and light protein chains. This improves the metabolism between blood and tissues.

An increase in the volume of circulating blood loads the heart, and an increase in the heart rate occurs - tachycardia. An increase in frequency to 90-96 beats per minute is considered extremely normal.

Changes in the respiratory system in a woman's body during pregnancy

The respiratory system of a pregnant woman changes according to changes in cardiovascular system. An increase in the volume of circulating blood and an increase in the heart rate entail an increase and deepening of breathing due to the constancy of the ratio between the amount of blood flowing through the lungs and the volume of air inhaled.

A developing fetus in the process of life releases an increased amount of carbon dioxide - CO 2. Once in the mother's blood, carbon dioxide causes an increase in breathing in order to quickly rid the body of excess carbon dioxide.

Increased breathing also occurs due to an increase in the size of the uterus in the second half of pregnancy, which compresses all internal organs, including chest, and this reduces the volume of the lungs, deepens and quickens breathing

But the respiratory rate should not increase more than 20-22 breaths per minute.

Hormonal changes in a woman's body during pregnancy

The onset and development of pregnancy are accompanied by pronounced changes in hormonal system woman's body. The complexity of these changes is determined by the influence of placental and fetal hormones on the activity of the glands. internal secretion mother.

The onset and progression of pregnancy supports the corpus luteum of pregnancy. This structure in the ovary is formed after ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. In an empty follicle, a vesicle in which the egg cell developed before its final maturation and release into the "light", the shell cells quickly transform into luteophores (buttercup is a yellow flower, lutein is a yellow pigment, therefore the structure in the ovary is called the corpus luteum), releasing the hormone progesterone , which ensures the development of the embryo in the first 2-3 months. Progesterone plays a significant role in the process of implantation of the ovum into the endometrium. With the beginning of the development of the trophoblast, and then the placenta, the corpus luteum gradually undergoes the reverse process. Further, the development of pregnancy and the growth of the embryo and then the fetus is provided by the placenta.

Of the hormonal glands of the expectant mother, we first consider the pituitary gland, the “teardrop” hanging at the lower edge of the cerebral hemispheres. It produces all the hormones that control the activity of the endocrine glands.

They are located in the anterior lobe, which increases by 2-3 times during pregnancy, since there is a complete redistribution of all members of this "council". Increased 5-6 times prolactin (pro - for, lactis - milk) blocks follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones, so the maturation of eggs stops in a pregnant woman and menstrual cycles do not occur. With the development of the placenta, the function of prolactin for the development of the mammary glands and the production of colostrum and milk in them is taken over by the placental lactogen (lactos - milk and genesis - formation), i.e. milk-forming hormone.

Significantly increases the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone, TSH. Accordingly, the production of TK and T4 hormones increases in a pregnant woman. thyroid gland. They provide the proper level of metabolism, optimal for the growth and development of the fetus. Some women even experience some enlargement of the thyroid gland.

But this is followed by an increase in the activity of the thyroxin-binding ability of the blood serum, which is due to the influence of hormones of the feto-placental system.

The function of the parathyroid glands is reduced, because of this, the calcium content in the blood of a pregnant woman may be disturbed, which causes painful cramps in calf muscles, in the feet.

Therefore, from the first weeks of pregnancy, it is required to increase the calcium content in the blood by taking foods rich in calcium, or prescribing drugs, calcium salts. Soluble Ca is the most effective, it is much easier to digest in the stomach and intestines.

The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland does not increase. It produces oxytocin physiological factor uterine contractions. It accumulates in the posterior lobe during pregnancy. At the end of pregnancy, all the accumulated oxytocin suddenly enters the mother's bloodstream and triggers the onset of labor - uterine contractions.

Also, in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, antidiuretic hormone is formed, which ensures the accumulation of fluid in the body of a pregnant woman.

Significant changes occur in the adrenal glands. They increase blood flow, and due to this, overgrowth hormone-producing tissue of the adrenal cortex. And in the blood, the content of the specific protein transcortin increases, which accompanies adrenal hormones into the blood, ensuring their attachment to various sensitive cells - receptors in different organs.

This is exactly how hormones work - they attach to receptors, like inserting a key into a lock, providing their effects. The increased amount of adrenal hormones in the blood of a pregnant woman is explained not only by their increased production in the adrenal glands, but also by the intake of fetal adrenal hormones into the body of the expectant mother after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Adrenal hormones have an adaptive effect, increase the resistance of membranes and tissues to stress. But there is also a side effect - the formation of brown pigment on the face, nipples, areola, along the white line (middle of the abdomen) of the abdomen of pregnant women. On the chest, hips, abdomen in the 2nd half of pregnancy, cyanotic-purple striae appear - stretch marks of the skin with a divergence of connective tissue fibers. After childbirth, these scars become whitish in color and become less noticeable.

Changes in the intake of various nutrients by cells and tissues of a pregnant woman

A growing baby requires more and more vitamins and minerals. Due to the increased need of the fetus for glucose, the production of insulin increases. In a healthy woman, blood sugar levels are usually within the normal range for a pregnant woman, but if the expectant mother has diabetes, then various difficulties may arise.

Also, a doctor's correction may be required if a woman has anemia. A pregnant lady especially needs vitamins E, C, B vitamins, folic acid, PP, iron, etc. Your nutrition and the appointment of the necessary vitamins and microelements are controlled by the doctor.

Changes in the immune system in a woman's body during pregnancy

The embryo receives 50% of the genetic information from the father, which means that half of it consists of material that is immunologically alien to the woman.

Therefore, the fetus is semi-compatible with the mother's body. In the process of pregnancy development, complex immunological direct and feedback. Such relationships provide harmonious development fetus and prevent its rejection. The earliest barrier to antibodies is the zona pellucida of the fertilized egg, which is impenetrable to immune cells.

Trophoblast elements foreign to the mother's body appear at the 5th week of pregnancy, and the same fetal tissues - at the 12th week of pregnancy. From this period, the immune "attack" of the fetus develops and progresses.

The immune defense of the maternal organism is provided by several mechanisms. First of all, these are blocking antibodies - protein "reflections" of antigens - foreign proteins, corresponding to each other, like an electron and a positron, and also mutually destroying. Secondly, these are placental lactogen and chorionic hormones circulating in the mother's blood, which inhibit the "meeting" of antigens with antibodies and the manifestation of an antibody-antigenic reaction - mutual destruction. The third mechanism is the influence of a specific fruit protein, alpha-fetoprotein, AFP, which suppresses the production of antibodies by maternal lymphocytes.

And in the immunological protection of the fetus, the placenta plays a leading role. The trophoblast is resistant to immune rejection because it is surrounded on all sides by a layer of immunologically inert fibrinoid (we discussed it in the chapter on placental development).

This layer reliably protects the fetus from immunological aggression from the mother.

Changes in the urinary system in a woman's body during pregnancy

The kidneys of pregnant women function with an increased load, removing from the mother's body not only the products of her metabolism, but also the waste products of the fetus.

The hormone progesterone weakens the tone of the ureters and bladder. Urination becomes more frequent; not only at the beginning of pregnancy, but throughout pregnancy, the number of emptying of the bladder is higher than in non-pregnant women. Increased vascular permeability of the kidneys at the end of pregnancy sometimes leads to the appearance of traces of protein in the urine. Moreover, there is an unproven opinion that these are the proteins of the fetus, and not the expectant mother. Sometimes sugar also appears - physiological glucosuria of pregnant women.

A glucose tolerance test, an analysis of sugar load tolerance, helps to distinguish this from the manifestations of diabetes.

Changes in the digestive system in a woman's body during pregnancy

Many women experience nausea, sensitivity to smells, and sometimes vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy. These phenomena are called toxicosis.

However, no toxins (poisons) are found. There is a theory that explains these phenomena by the unpreparedness of the body for the development of pregnancy, reduced ovarian function. All these phenomena disappear at the end of the first trimester, when the placenta is formed, replacing the hormonal function.

Pregnancy inhibits the secretion of gastric juice and other digestive glands, food stagnates in the stomach and intestines, constipation is formed at the same time.

The function of the liver changes significantly: glucose depots are emptied, transferring it into the bloodstream and to the fetus, which needs glucose as a high-energy material.

The metabolism of fats also changes. They are "simplified" to glycerol and fatty acids. In this form, fats enter the bloodstream and to the fetus. Therefore, in the blood of pregnant women, no increased amount glucose, no fat. The amount of cholesterol can be increased - this is a fatty depot of hepatocytes - liver cells. The protein-forming function of the liver also changes, aimed at providing the fetus with a significant amount of protein and its “building blocks” - amino acids, necessary for the fetus for nutrition and building own body. The number of blood coagulation factors produced by the liver increases at the end of pregnancy, causing an increase in clotting. it normal reaction body in the light of the upcoming birth.

The detoxifying function of the liver during pregnancy is weakened, so the use of alcohol, drugs and toxins can be especially detrimental. After all, the body is almost naked and not protected in the face of poisoning.

And in the second half of pregnancy, the growing uterus pushes the intestines to back wall abdominal cavity. Moreover, the hormone testerone, which provides relaxation of the uterus, simultaneously weakens the intestinal walls, inhibiting peristalsis - a consistent contraction of the intestinal walls that promotes the contents through the intestines. Of particular importance in the formation of constipation is increased fluid retention in the body of a pregnant woman. The contents of the intestine are dried. This can lead to cracks. anus which makes defecation extremely painful.

And here the already existing constipation exacerbates conscious inhibition and postponing going to the toilet. Stagnation of feces in the intestines poisons the body of a pregnant woman. And, as already mentioned, it is not protected against toxins.

The state of health of the pregnant woman worsens, nausea, spastic pains in the abdomen appear.

The way to solve these problems lies in several measures. The first is the drinking regime: with nausea in early pregnancy, you should literally drink yourself, drink 5-6 glasses of water in a spoon, overcoming the tendency to accumulate fluid.

The second is the introduction of easily digestible foods into food, in small portions and more often.

When the intestines are pushed aside and peristalsis is slowed down, it is necessary to enrich the diet with vegetable fiber - beets, prunes, apricots or dried apricots, radishes, radishes, pumpkins. Fiber swells in the intestines and, like a broom, sweeps stagnant contents out of the body

You can use laxatives that disrupt the contact of feces with the intestinal wall. Under the influence of gravity stool moving towards the exit. Filling the rectum is a signal to defecate.

Also effective is the use of eubiotics, preparations of intestinal microflora - Acipol with lactobacilli, Bifiform with bifidobacteria, etc. These drugs have no contraindications either for children or for pregnant and lactating women. Normalization of the intestinal microflora leads to the disappearance of putrefactive bacteria capable of producing toxins from it.

Changes in the genital organs in a woman's body during pregnancy

They are undergoing significant changes. In the chapter on hormonal changes It has already been said that prolactin suppresses the maturation of eggs in the ovaries and menstrual cycles.

The external genitalia become significantly softened and become bluish in color, as blood circulation decreases in them. The cervix and uterus also soften, especially the isthmus. This is one of the earliest likely signs pregnancy.

During the development of the fetus, the uterus grows significantly. Its weight before pregnancy 50-80 g increases to 1-2 kg by the end of pregnancy. All ligaments thicken and lengthen, providing a stretching of the uterus in height and width. They are also softened by soaking with tissue fluid. The joints and articulations of the small pelvis also soften. All this creates optimal conditions for the birth of the fetus.

Weight changes in a woman's body during pregnancy

Normal weight gain during pregnancy is 7.5-12 kg. Such wide boundaries are explained by the difference in the initial height and weight indicators of a woman before pregnancy. If a woman had an average body mass index of 23-25, then she can add 8-10 kg during pregnancy. If there was a reduced body mass index of 17-20, then it is allowed to add 10-12 kg. And if an overweight woman becomes pregnant, then her increase should be limited to 5-7.5 kg. Such restrictions are necessary, since both underweight and overweight with too much weight gain, they threaten the occurrence of complications from both the pregnant woman and the fetus.

Increasing importance of the smooth functioning of the endocrine system

The uninterrupted operation of the entire endocrine system of a woman is extremely important for bearing a baby. No secretion of hormones from the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, ovaries and their associated joint work it is impossible to conceive and bear a child. Therefore, any deviation in the work of the endocrine glands can introduce an imbalance in the work of the entire endocrine system and make it difficult to fulfill the dream of motherhood. The most common pathologies of the endocrine organs affect the thyroid gland and the gonads.

Thyroid hormones are necessary for the formation of the placenta, control of the process of embryogenesis, growth and development of all organs and systems of the baby, as well as for the laying and formation of brain functions. Active during pregnancy thyroid may even increase in size due to the increasing load. It can also occur from a lack of iodine during the bearing of the baby, since most of it passes to the fetus.

Changing the load on the musculoskeletal system

Under the influence of hormones, the ligamentous apparatus of the joints becomes more relaxed, and increasing body weight creates an additional load on them, so unpleasant and pain in the area of the joints.

Due to the growing belly, the load on the spine, especially on the lumbosacral region, increases greatly. In this regard, the expectant mother may experience pain in the spine.

If a woman before pregnancy had problems with posture, joints, muscle skeleton, then with an increased load on them, she may need to consult an appropriate specialist. Physical exercises, wearing a bandage usually helps to solve such problems.