The circulatory system of a pregnant woman. Normalizes reproductive function. Possible effect in the fetus and newborn

13.06.2019

A woman's body is programmed for childbirth. The process of pregnancy, childbirth and lactation has a beneficial effect on the mental and physical health of a woman. Many chronic diseases, disorders in the sexual sphere come to naught thanks to the birth of a child. During pregnancy, great changes occur in a woman's body, both visible and invisible. The anatomical, chemical, physiological nature of the changes taking place is intended to provide the unborn child with everything necessary for his development.

Uterus, breasts

The uterus begins to enlarge from the very beginning of pregnancy. For all the time, its weight will increase from 50-60 grams to 1 kg or more, its volume - from 2-3 ml to 4-5 liters.

On examination, the doctor will see changes in the uterus already in the first month: it reaches the size of an orange, from triangular it becomes round. You yourself visually see changes from 4 months: the silhouette changes, a tummy appears.

The chest begins to swell and become heavy with, sometimes it is accompanied by tingling and hot flashes. The nipples become bulging after a few weeks, the areola darkens, and pimples appear.

The breasts are permeated with many blood vessels, of which the veins are more visible during pregnancy. Colostrum can begin to be secreted as early as the fourth month.

Blood circulation of a pregnant woman

The mother's blood must supply the fetus with the substances necessary for its development, as well as remove waste toxins. This appears with the help of a special organ that appears during pregnancy -.

During pregnancy, everything blood vessels expand, and the volume of circulating blood increases by about one and a half liters. Red blood cells are diluted with a large amount of plasma (liquid part of the blood), which often leads to iron deficiency. Therefore, in the last months of pregnancy, mothers are often prescribed iron supplements.

The increased size of the uterus sometimes interferes with the return of blood from the extremities to the heart, legs may swell, veins may dilate... If the vena cava, which carries blood to the heart, is compressed by the uterus, you may feel unwell in the supine position. To avoid discomfort, you can try to lie on your left side, which unblocks the "venous return", since the vena cava runs to the right of the uterus.

Pulse speeded up by 10-15 beats even in sleep. With multiple pregnancies - even more than 10-15 strokes. The pulse rate fluctuates up to 90 beats per minute. Minute blood volume increases by 30-50% from the end of the first trimester to the end of pregnancy. Thus, the heart beats faster, as it needs to pump more blood, and the entire cardiovascular system adapts to the additional stress during pregnancy.

Blood pressure decreases slightly during the first trimester, as the blood mass increases and the vessels are dilated. With the approach of the due date (we wrote about the calculation in the articles Determining the day of birth by the date of the last menstruation) the pressure returns to the previous figures. It should not be higher than 140 to 90.

Breathing of a pregnant woman

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause temporary swelling of the lining of the larynx, trachea and bronchi. Because of this, a woman's voice can change its tone. This should not be a cause for concern, after childbirth everything will return to normal.

In the first half of pregnancy, the tone and activity of the abdominal muscles decrease. The uterus gradually displaces up the main respiratory muscle, the diaphragm, and this significantly limits its mobility. Breathing becomes chest, upper.

A pregnant woman breathes both for herself and for her child, whose lungs will start working only after childbirth. Therefore, with each breath, you need to absorb 10-15% more air than usual. This hyperventilation is beneficial for the fetus, it lowers the pressure of carbon dioxide.

We have already written about the problems of breathing while lying on your back. When faced with shortness of breath, you need to try to change your sleeping position: try to lie on your left side.

Digestion during pregnancy

The intestines, bladder, stomach are compressed by the enlarging uterus. Internal organs adapt to this, making room for the fetus, and the placenta.

At the beginning of pregnancy, the amount of saliva increases. The gums become more fragile and may bleed. There is a risk of tooth decay. Right now, it is especially important to regularly visit the dentist and monitor the condition of the oral cavity.

A burning sensation beginning in the stomach and going up the esophagus to the throat, sometimes accompanied by the discharge of acidic fluid, usually appears by 4 months of pregnancy. This is Pyrosis, heartburn of pregnancy that persists until delivery and is often worse with supine position.

Under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the stomach becomes "lazy", its tone decreases, food remains in the stomach longer, it is released more slowly, and it is quickly saturated.

The slow passage of food through the digestive tract leads to constipation, but proper nutrition will help to cope with this (see article on).

As the weight of the fetus increases, the uterus presses on the bladder, so the urge appears more often. In addition, the increased blood volume increases the burden on the kidneys to filter and remove toxins. The renal pelvis and urinary ducts, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, are dilated and less toned towards the end of pregnancy.

Sometimes during pregnancy, sugar may appear in the urine, which does not indicate diabetes. The presence of sugar in the form of lactose is normal in late pregnancy, while the presence of glucose may indicate a slight impairment of filtration in the kidneys.

Hormonal changes in pregnancy

Pregnancy is accompanied by complex hormonal processes that allow the body to adapt to new conditions. These hormones are produced by the ovaries before pregnancy and by the placenta during pregnancy, they are also necessary for a woman's sexual and sexual life. These hormones are progesterone and estrogen.

The balance of action of these hormones helps implantation of the egg into the uterus, they ensure the life of the fetus, acting on the smooth muscles of the uterus, interfering with its contraction. Chorionic gonadtropin, the only hormone secreted only during pregnancy, plays a role in maintaining the function of the corpus luteum in early pregnancy. Further in the course of pregnancy, other hormones are included: prolactin, which affects the development of the mammary glands and their preparation for feeding, and oxytocin, under the influence of which labor will begin.

Hormones affecting the mental and mental state of a pregnant woman:

Chorionic gonadotropin: pregnancy hormone, causes a vague miraculous feeling of "I'm pregnant";
Progesterone: soothes the psyche, its effect is enhanced by childbirth;
Estrogen: awakens ancient instincts, for example, the instinct of the nest, and related concerns and worries about the child;
Prolactin: stimulates the development of the mammary glands, the formation of milk, forms the maternal instinct;
Endorphin: Pain reliever produced by the body, affects the emotional state. Most endorphins - the hormone of happiness - are produced during pregnancy.

Adaptation of Metabolism - Metabolism - to Pregnancy

The chemical changes that allow the body to meet energy needs during pregnancy, regenerate and form new tissues, and produce essential nutrients during pregnancy are very important for both mother and baby.

It is very important, since the intake of proteins, fats (lipids), vitamins, calcium, iron and other substances necessary for an unborn child depends on it. Water, salt, fats, carbohydrates and proteins are altered to provide the fetus with the nutrients it uses in its metabolism.

Water and salt... To compensate for the salt loss caused by progesterone during pregnancy, the body retains more water and sodium. This can lead to swelling. If the edema is not of a common nature, it is generally not dangerous, but you should monitor it and try to eliminate it with creams that increase the tone of the veins, compression stockings. A diet poor in salt is useless and can be harmful.

Fats... The amount of fat in the blood increases during pregnancy. Cholesterol is transformed in the placenta and serves to form progesterone and is also used by the fetus to form other hormones. In the first months, the mother's body accumulates a store of fat, which will then be consumed to meet the increased energy needs.

Sugar... During pregnancy, everything in the body is aimed at obtaining glucose and delivering it to the fetus, as it needs it to participate in energy metabolism.

Protein... They are necessary for the formation of new tissues, they are involved in all stages of metabolic changes in the body of the mother and fetus. During pregnancy, you need to get about 25% more protein from meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products.

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

Below we will consider in more detail the most important changes in a woman's body during pregnancy, as well as their significance for normal evolution of pregnancy itself, childbirth and lactation period.

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.

Nervous and endocrine system changes
The main roles in the implementation of the transformations of the female body during pregnancy are played by the nervous and endocrine systems.

At the level central nervous system(brain and spinal cord), complex nervous mechanisms are triggered, aimed at maintaining the constancy of substances in the body of a pregnant woman, which is necessary for the normal development of the fetus. For example, it was noted that up to 39 weeks of gestation, impulses coming from the sensitive receptors of the uterus are blocked at the level of the 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 the 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 some 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 work of most of the internal organs).

It is well known that the nervous and endocrine systems are in close interaction. This interaction is especially clearly manifested 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 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 sex glands of the woman's body) make possible the development of the egg 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 an intensive growth of the fetal placenta. The placenta, as you know, in addition to the role of nutrition of the fetus, also synthesizes 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 reproductive 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). If the functioning of the placenta is impaired (during various diseases of the mother or fetus), 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 influence of progesterone, the muscles of the uterus and intestines relax. Progesterone has an inhibitory effect on the nervous system, determining the sleepiness and fatigue described above. The effect of progesterone on the development of adipose tissue in a pregnant woman is important. The storage of nutrients in adipose tissue during pregnancy is necessary for the nutrition of the fetus and the formation of milk in the postpartum period.

In addition to hormones synthesized in the placenta, various hormones produced by the endocrine system of the mother's body play an important role. It should be noted that at the initial stages of development, the body of the fetus is not able to synthesize many hormones, but they come to it from the mother's body. For example, thyroid hormones are an extremely important factor in fetal development. 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 the bones and facial contours, arise 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 the growth of the body).

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

To increase the amount of assimilated food, the mother's body produces more digestive enzymes. At the level of the lungs, blood oxygen saturation increases. This is done mainly due to an increase in the number of erythrocytes, 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 of these nutrients cross the placenta into the blood of the fetus, thereby providing the developing body 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 of many minerals in the blood: iron, calcium, phosphorus, copper, cobalt, magnesium. Like nutrients, these elements enter the fetal bloodstream through the placenta and are used by the growing body for development.

During pregnancy, the woman's body needs more vitamins. This is due to an increase in 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 heart and is used by it for its own development.

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

The cardiovascular system mothers have to pump more blood during pregnancy 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 increases, the pulse rate and the amount of blood pumped by the heart increase in one minute. In addition, the volume of circulating blood increases. In some cases, blood pressure increases. The tone of blood vessels decreases during pregnancy, which creates favorable conditions for an increased supply of nutrients and oxygen to tissues.

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

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

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

Uterus the pregnant woman increases significantly in size. Its mass increases from 50 g - at the beginning of pregnancy to 1200 - at the end of pregnancy. The volume of the uterine cavity by the end of pregnancy increases 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, clogging the cavity of the cervical canal. Fallopian tubes and ovaries also increase in size. In one of the ovaries, there is a "yellow body of pregnancy" - the place of synthesis of hormones that support pregnancy.

The walls of the vagina are loosened and become more elastic.

External genital organs(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 of the 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 along 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 after childbirth turn into whitish stripes.

Mammary gland increase in size, become more elastic, tense. When pressing on the nipple, colostrum (first milk) is excreted.

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 a number of cases in patients with mental or endocrine disorders. At the same time, the power of self-hypnosis of a woman is so great that some physiological changes characteristic of a real pregnancy occur: an increase in the mammary glands, the appearance of colostrum, the disappearance of menstruation. Examination of the patient helps to establish a diagnosis and recognize a 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, tries to convince others otherwise.

Bibliography:

Kokhanevich E.V. Topical issues of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductology, M Triada-X, 2006
Savelyeva G.M. Obstetrics, Medicine, M., 2000
Karr F. Obstetrics, gynecology and women's health, MEDpress-inform 2005

When a new life arises in a woman's body, then all organs and systems of the expectant mother begin to work in a completely new way. It seems to many that the changes concern only the reproductive organs and the endocrine system, but in fact there is not a single organ in the female body that has not undergone changes during this period. Of course, the activity of the central nervous system of a pregnant woman also changes.

Changes in the nervous system of a pregnant woman

Pregnancy completely changes the life of the expectant mother, because now she does not live by herself, but with the child, even if there are still several months before his birth. But the changes concern not only the relationship with the outside world, but also, above all, the relationship of the future mother and the future baby - everything that happens in the body of a pregnant woman, from the first days, is aimed at harmonizing the relationship between two organisms - the mother's body and the fetus's body, - which will have to be one for a long time.

In addition, from the very beginning of pregnancy, a woman's body begins to prepare for such important processes as childbirth, and then breastfeeding. Changes associated with pregnancy, future childbirth and future breastfeeding affect almost all systems and organs of the female body. It is quite natural that the nervous system of the expectant mother should also be rebuilt.

Often, those around them assume that a young woman is expecting a baby, because they notice sudden mood swings - fun gives way to tears, joy to irritation, calmness can easily and quickly turn into nervousness. In addition, there are some incomprehensible desires, vague sensations, whims, and even tantrums happen. On the one hand, all these changes are often attributed to changes in the work of the hormonal system (the so-called hormonal storms), but there is another side of the issue - the activity of the central nervous system, which is undergoing very significant changes.

It is well known that the human central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which govern the activities of the whole organism. However, does everyone know that it is in the central nervous system (CNS) with the onset of pregnancy that very complex nervous processes (mechanisms of nervous activity) begin to work, which should ensure the normal development of the fetus in the mother's womb?

But for this, it is necessary to maintain the necessary balance of various substances in the body, on which both the development of the fetus and its safety depend. Moreover, it is easy to understand that the balance of these substances will almost certainly differ from the balance in the last weeks of bearing a baby.

Attention!During pregnancy, the most complex mechanisms in the work of the central nervous system are aimed at the normal development of the fetus and at maintaining the required level of all the necessary substances that allow the baby to develop in the prenatal period.

Scientists who deal with issues of gestation note a very interesting fact: the impulses that enter the body of a pregnant woman from very sensitive receptors in the uterus are blocked by the central nervous system at the level of the spinal cord until the 39th week of pregnancy. It is this reaction of the central nervous system (blocking of impulses) that allows you to maintain pregnancy for a time programmed by nature and avoid premature birth or miscarriage.

It is noted that the so-called gestational dominant is formed in the cerebral cortex during pregnancy as a focus of increased CNS excitability. At the same time, the excitability of the nervous system (nervous apparatus) of the uterus is reduced, which allows it to remain at rest. The excitability of the nervous system of the uterus and the lower parts of the central nervous system increases only in the period that precedes childbirth, which creates the conditions necessary for a successful delivery.

No less interesting are the findings of the researchers that changes in the behavior and mood of a pregnant woman, for example, increased fatigue, drowsiness and even irritability, are nothing more than defense mechanisms that are produced by the central nervous system to protect a pregnant woman from overwork.

Attention!Morning sickness and vomiting, which often torment pregnant women, especially in the early lines, depend on changes in the tone of the vagus nerve, which regulates the work of many internal organs. In addition, the altered vagus tone is also responsible for changes in the perception of smells, taste and preferences, as well as for frequent dizziness.

Autonomic nervous system during pregnancy

It is known that the autonomic nervous system, which is otherwise called the autonomic nervous system, is of great importance for the functioning of the body. It is the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that performs the most important functions in regulating the work of all internal organs, including the food organs, respiratory organs, hematopoiesis and circulation of blood and lymph, and also regulates the activity of the excretory system, the functioning of the reproductive system and the functions of reproduction of the biological species.

The work of the autonomic nervous system does not depend on human consciousness and therefore does not obey consciousness and will. The reactions of the autonomic nervous system are objective and do not depend on external influences. The autonomic nervous system encompasses all organs and systems of the body and coordinates their work - the creation of optimal conditions for the body at every moment of time and in every situation depends on the activity of the ANS.

Of course, the ANS is also very important for the successful development of pregnancy: it is known that the innervation of the autonomic nervous system affects all organs of a pregnant woman, except for the placenta. And although the placenta is not included in the scope of the ANS, the blood supply to the uterus and its contractions depend precisely on the autonomic nervous system.

It is very important to understand that the ANS works autonomously, that is, independently, and many organs of a pregnant woman fall into the sphere of its independent influence, including the heart, bronchi, large and small blood vessels, intestinal smooth muscles, bladder, uterus and many other vital organs important for a pregnant woman. It is the autonomic nervous system that regulates the activity (including the activity) of the cells that are innervated and controlled by it, therefore the work of many organs and the changes that occur in them during pregnancy depend on the ANS.

It is noted that during the period of bearing a child in the body of a pregnant woman, the sympathetic-adrenal division of the ANS is more active and the work of the heart, vascular system and respiratory system is more actively stimulated, which provides the body of a pregnant woman and fetus with a sufficient amount of oxygen and essential nutrients. In addition, during the same period, the blood supply to the kidneys increases, which should remove waste products not only of a pregnant woman, but also of her unborn child.

Gestational dominant in a pregnant woman

During pregnancy, the formation of a gestational dominant plays a huge role, which is a focus of increased excitability in the cerebral cortex.

In the formation of the gestational dominant, the most important role is played by the fact that the nervous system of a pregnant woman constantly perceives numerous impulses that come from the developing fetus and reacts to them. Of course, nerve receptors are the first to respond to impulses from the ovum, which contains many different receptors that allow you to instantly respond to the state of the fetus. Any effect on any of the receptors located in the uterus causes changes in the work of the maternal central and autonomic nervous systems, and any of such changes is designed to ensure the most correct development of the fetus and its safety.

It is known that during pregnancy the most serious changes occur in the central nervous system of a pregnant woman. As soon as an egg is fertilized in a woman's body, that is, from the moment pregnancy begins, the mother's central nervous system begins to receive a huge and constantly increasing flow of impulses, which leads to the formation of a focus in the cerebral cortex that has the ability to increase excitability - it was this focus that received the name of the gestational dominant.

It is very important that around the gestational dominant, that is, around the focus formed under the influence of pregnancy in the brain, in accordance with the laws of induction, a certain field is created in which the processes of inhibition of the nervous processes of the pregnant woman take place. When observing pregnant women, there are clinical signs such as a somewhat inhibited state of a woman, a change in priorities and interests, which are shifted towards the unborn child, especially towards everything related to future childbirth and the health of the baby. Doctors who monitor pregnant women note that everything that is not related to the child and pregnancy often fades into the background in pregnant women and even loses its meaning.

However, doctors who monitor the course of pregnancy note that if a woman who is expecting a child is exposed to severe stress, including fear, fright or any other strong emotional experience, then in the central nervous system of a pregnant woman, in addition to the gestational dominant, other foci of persistent arousal may occur. , which can not only weaken the gestational dominant, but also provoke the development of any pathology in the development of pregnancy.

Attention!It is the formation, along with the gestational dominant, of another focus of persistent arousal, which often leads to pathological processes, that confirms the urgent need to provide the pregnant woman with constant and maximum psychological comfort. Leaving your zone of psychological comfort during pregnancy can have unpredictable negative consequences. The role of the gestational dominant is to ensure that a woman expecting a child is psychologically protected from any troubles and shocks as much as possible.

However, shortly before childbirth, some lethargy (reduced excitability of the cerebral cortex), providing a relaxed state of the uterus and a favorable course of pregnancy, is replaced by an increase in the excitability of the nervous system (nerve elements) of the uterus, which is necessary for successful labor and successful childbirth.

It never ceases to be amazed that nature is extremely wise and thinks everything out ten steps ahead. Taking the human body as a model, delving into its life processes and observing the changes occurring in a given period of time, one can endlessly admire the incredible complexity of its structure and phenomenally thought-out "design". The miracles of the human body have been observed by scientists since time immemorial for thousands of years, and I bet that Mother Nature will surprise us more than once!

Physiology is the science of the normal functioning of a living organism (any), of the processes taking place inside it. If you delve into this scientific branch, then you can note a lot of interesting things for yourself, it is especially curious to draw something from human physiology, to learn interesting facts about your own body.

Physiological changes in a woman's body during pregnancy are of interest not only for scientists, doctors, academics and people working in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, but no less entertaining for women themselves, who are in this excellent state. Agree, if you are reading this article, you are probably wondering what happens to you during this wonderful and truly magical period of your life! Let's take a look at the very influence of pregnancy on a woman's body in a popular scientific and maximally accessible format for an ordinary reader, and what processes occur at all organismic levels.

Endocrine system

As paradoxical as it may seem, hormones control our body, feelings and emotions. Each woman noticed some emotional changes in the premenstrual period or directly during the "red days of the calendar" - hormones are to blame. What about jokes about whimsical, whiny and emotionally unstable chubby ladies? Have you heard? What do you think? True, hormones have inherited here too. How does it work?

For a quick reference: hormones are special substances produced by specialized endocrine glands, which function as regulators of certain processes in the body, spreading along the latter with the bloodstream.

So, with the onset of pregnancy, the female body begins a global restructuring, preparing as much as possible for the period of gestation and, of course, childbirth. And just certain hormones serve as a kind of cheerful kick (each substance is strictly specific and is responsible for a number of certain reactions and processes). In fact, that very start begins even before fertilization, when the body "prepares" a viable egg, and the reproductive system prepares for a possible conception.

The ovaries are the main "plant" of female sex hormones, which, with the onset of pregnancy, somewhat increase in size and begin to work at full capacity, in two shifts. One of the ovaries produces the so-called corpus luteum - a temporary, but extremely important formation, which will subsequently replace the placenta.

In the corpus luteum, hormones are produced (progesterone, some estrogen, relaxin). Progesterone plays a key role in preparing the uterus for bearing a baby, protects the uterus and the ovum. It is thanks to the activity of the corpus luteum that the growth of the uterus is ensured, the breast swells and increases, the woman is "filled". In tandem with the ovaries, which produce estrogens, the corpus luteum provides a full preparation of the female body for bearing a child.

By 4 full months of pregnancy (16 weeks), the corpus luteum disappears, transferring "powers" to the placenta. The placenta is an amazing temporary organ of internal secretion that acts as a link between the mother and the fetus. The placenta not only synthesizes the necessary hormones, the vital activity of the fetus depends on its functionality. She is a kind of barrier, protector of the future baby from pathogenic microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, toxins, decay products and many harmful things.

The supply of nutrients and respiratory function is also carried out thanks to the placenta, as well as the removal of waste products of the fetus. It is the placenta that produces estriol - the "protector of pregnancy", gonadotropins, oxytocin, vasopressin, melanocyte-stimulating hormone and a number of other regulators. The latter, by the way, explains the increased pigmentation in pregnant women (darkening of nipple halos, the appearance of freckles, birthmarks and a well-distinguishable strip on the abdomen extending from the pubis to the navel - for this, let's say thanks to the hormone MSH).

A few words can be said about the chorionic gonadotropin, better known to women as. It begins to be detected in the blood already at the 3rd week of pregnancy and is produced by the chorionic membrane, when there is still no placenta in sight. It is he who is the "marker of pregnancy" in the earliest lines, if you take a blood test to determine it, and it is all modern pregnancy tests that are based on the principle of a reaction to the presence of this substance in urine.

Nervous system

It is worth saying that the nervous and endocrine systems in the pregnant body are very closely related. It is true that the female body prioritizes self-protection and the maintenance of pregnancy throughout its duration. It is extremely important to minimize all conceivable and inconceivable risks of its failure. Therefore, the central nervous system of the expectant mother begins to implement a very cunning plan.

The impulses coming from the uterus are intensely blocked by the spinal cord to exclude the possibility of premature birth (this picture is observed normally up to 39 weeks of gestation), and the autonomic nervous system undergoes some changes in order to protect the female body. Tearfulness, drowsiness, change in taste preferences, intolerance to odors, nausea and other "pregnant delights" are nothing more than typical manifestations of the protective mechanisms of the central nervous system. Therefore, if your beloved spouse complains about your capriciousness, you can safely refer to your nervous system, you have nothing to do with it.

The cardiovascular system

The entire cardiovascular system of the expectant mother carefully and faithfully begins to work for two. It cannot be otherwise, because in addition to ensuring the normal functioning and nutrition of the organs of the woman herself, it is important not to deprive the baby of everything necessary for his growth and full development. In pregnant women, there is such a phenomenon as an increase in the amount of blood plasma starting from the 10th week of gestation. Subsequently, this can lead to physiological anemia (as a variant of the norm) and a decrease in the level of hemoglobin (oxygen carrier protein). It is noted that in the vast majority of expectant mothers, the hemoglobin level is reduced starting from the 26th week. Pressure, pulse rate (physiological tachycardia), and total blood volume also increase. The so-called uteroplacental circle of blood circulation appears.

Often, pregnant women complain of sudden hot flashes, increased sweating, and even nasal congestion. This can be explained by increased microcirculation in tissues. In this case, varicose manifestations on the external genital organs, reddening of tissues, dulling sensations of cold and heat can be pronounced.

As pregnancy progresses, the pressure in the limbs increases steadily. The growing uterus begins to squeeze nearby organs, large vessels, interfering with normal blood flow. It is for this reason that women in the last trimester are not advised to lie on their backs. A heavy fetus compresses the inferior vena cava, disrupting circulation and leading to collapse.

D respiratory system

The need for oxygen increases every day throughout the gestational period. And at least once a pregnant woman will confirm that the larger the belly, the harder it is to breathe. And all because there is a displacement of internal organs, the diaphragm rises up, interfering with the full filling of the lungs. For this reason, the woman breathes more often. The body of a pregnant woman, due to natural changes in its condition, seeks to provide oxygen not only to itself, but also to the growing fetus.

As everyone knows, there are two types of breathing: chest and abdominal (diaphragmatic). In pregnant women, just the latter type is observed due to the mobility of the diaphragm and some changes in the chest (it becomes shorter and wider).

The increasing demand for oxygen forces the expectant mother to breathe more often, which allows us to speak of an increase in oxygen consumption by almost 40% by the end of pregnancy. By the way, in childbirth in women, these indicators reach up to 250%! In order to avoid oversaturation with oxygen and hyperventilation of the lungs, observing obstetricians in the antenatal clinic are not in vain advise to read and learn in childbirth. It is very important.

Digestive system and metabolism

Of course, a tummy that grows in volume squeezes and displaces all internal organs, which can directly affect their functionality. So, most expectant mothers complain of frequent heartburn. But, this is understandable. The walls of the growing uterus force the stomach to take an almost horizontal position unusual for it. Because of this, its acidic contents can enter the esophagus, thereby irritating the latter, and, as a result, heartburn.

Another delicate problem of "pot-bellied" -. And this can also be fully explained from a physiological point of view. The fact is that the contractility of the intestinal musculature is reduced, and the absorption of fluid from the masses passing through it, on the contrary, increases. All this leads to problems with stool in most women in position.

As for the metabolism, the body is in dire need of obtaining all the necessary substances for the normal development and growth of the unborn baby. It is especially important to ensure proper, nutritious nutrition and the supply of vitamins in the first trimester of pregnancy, since it is during this period that all vital systems of the future person are laid. It is the first 12 weeks that are the most important, the "construction" is in full swing.

And now about the sore point: weight gain. Not every woman is happy with the increasing figure on the scales, but pregnancy is exactly the state when weight gain is necessary for its normal course.

Normal weight gain is considered to be 10-12 kg, and the overwhelming mass of this figure is not fat at all, as many might think, but liquid. Moreover, in the first trimester, the mass gain is not so noticeable, but the figure is rapidly increasing in the second and third gestational periods.

Due to what a woman is gaining weight:

✓ growing fetus;

✓ the increasing volume of the uterus and placenta;

✓ amniotic fluid;

✓ enlargement of the mammary glands;

✓ fluid retention in the body;

✓ increased blood volume;

✓ body fat (mainly thighs and buttocks).

By the way, fluid retention in the body occurs due to slowing down the elimination of sodium chloride from the body, which in turn can provoke swelling of the face and limbs.

On average, after giving birth, a woman loses about 5-6 kg of weight (for obvious reasons), and the rest "disappears" in the first months after childbirth (as a rule). But, if the future mom, as they say, “dabbled in buns” and did not deny herself night meals, it will not be possible to dump excess ballast so quickly, because this is not a liquid at all, but the most ordinary fat layer.

Well, let's debunk the myth. It is often said that pregnant women need to eat for two, they say, feed yourself and don't forget about the baby. Lies! Not for two, but for two. There is absolutely no need to gorge on well-fed and soft sides, to stuff the stomach to the full (remember at least about constant heartburn and constipation). It is enough just to eat properly and in moderation. Indulge in fresh vegetables, fruits, fiber, meat, fish and dairy products.

(reklama2)

To make the words sound more convincing, I will give a couple of facts from statistics. The vast majority of women who have gained overweight in excess of the norm, give birth harder and longer. Moreover, there is a high probability of rupture of the birth canal, even if the fetus is not large. And, finally, imagine how difficult it will be to lose extra pounds after giving birth, because the body will rebuild in a completely different way (again!), The hormonal background will change dramatically, and there will be no time for the gym at all (there is no time to even brush your teeth! ).

The average daily calorie intake for a healthy adult woman with normal body weight fluctuates around 2300 kcal. The woman's need for position increases slightly, up to about 2500-2600 kcal per day. Therefore, judge for yourself, if you eat "for two" (and this is about 5 thousand calories), then the extra thrifty organism will simply put off for a rainy day in the sides and bottom, and you and no one else will carry a heavy burden.

Musculoskeletal system

It was always interesting to watch pregnant women walk. They are like cute smeshariki, clumsily floating along the corridors of the antenatal clinic, supporting their lower back with their hand. Some connoisseurs who have seen in their lifetime argue that if a lady began to walk in a raskoryak like a duck, as if her stomach bothers her a lot, then just wait for a happy envelope. Indeed, the "burden of responsibility" in the form of a huge belly makes not only the posture, gait and appearance of a woman change, but the entire musculoskeletal system as a whole.

The hormone progesterone has a relaxing and softening effect on joints and ligaments. The pelvic joints also undergo similar changes (expansion of the pelvis and divergence of the pubic bones from the same opera), which ensures unhindered expulsion of the fetus when the time comes.

Flat feet in pregnant women can be caused by the same reason, and often the shoe size can increase by one or even two, especially when there are pronounced swelling of the limbs.

And, of course, changes in posture, the so-called "proud step" appear due to pronounced lordosis of the spine. In order to maintain balance and a more or less normal gait, a woman is forced to bend in the lower back, as if sticking out her stomach somewhat forward. Of course, in the later stages, pain in the lumbar spine is not excluded for obvious reasons.

Genitourinary system

The body of a pregnant woman is actively preparing for childbirth, and the reproductive system will take a direct part in this, therefore, changes will not go unchanged. In addition to the aforementioned divergence of the pelvic bones and softening of the joints, the lining epithelium of the external genital organs and the walls of the vagina becomes more elastic and loose. This is essential for a smooth and least traumatic delivery process for both the woman and the child.

The constantly growing uterus grows in size and gains mass. By the way, the differences in the size of this organ before pregnancy and at the very end are about 5 or more times. If in numbers, then a non-pregnant uterus weighs about 50-100 g, and at the time of childbirth up to one and a half kilograms!

The muscle fibers of the uterus increase in size, and the organ itself acquires the ability to contract (uterine tone) and respond to stimuli. Closer to the expected date of birth, training contractions or the so-called Braxton-Hicks contractions appear, which are expressed in chaotic, irregular and inconsistent contractions of the organ. Moreover, they are never painful, and sometimes the expectant mother may not notice them at all. This does not mean at all that labor activity begins, just a "little training".

Cyclic processes in the ovaries stop, physiological amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) sets in, which will continue for some time after childbirth (if a woman is breastfeeding, then menstruation will be absent throughout the entire period of breastfeeding). And the cervix is tightly closed with a mucous plug, which prevents unwanted microorganisms from entering the body of the uterus. By the way, it is her discharge (plugs) that is one of those and firmly suggests that your diligent efforts in the obstetric chair and the long-awaited meeting with the most important person in your life are not far off.

As for the urinary system, due to the relaxing effect of progesterone on the muscles of the bladder, such a phenomenon as stagnation of urine can be observed. The growing uterus presses on the bladder, provoking frequent visits to the "secret room" and general discomfort. Moreover, the combination of all these factors in a company with insufficient adherence to intimate hygiene can lead to inflammatory processes, and then hello, cystitis, pyelonephritis and other delights of diseases of the urinary system.

conclusions

Pregnancy and a woman's body, if viewed from the point of view of physiology, are two closely related concepts. The main female purpose is bearing offspring, reproduction, procreation, transfer of genetic information to subsequent generations.

The changes taking place with the expectant mother during this wonderful and very difficult period affect all systems, all organs and tissues, every cell of the body. The body, without asking permission from anyone, throws all resources into bearing a healthy child and actively, intensively prepares for his birth.

I will not tire of repeating that, despite all the inconveniences, limitations and possible problems during the period of carrying a baby, pregnancy is the best thing that can happen to a woman. It was during this period that she, like a flower, blooms in all its glory. Estrogens give her charm, beauty, perceptible by the glances of passers-by, her face shines, her figure is filled with juice, her breasts are heaving, a woman literally radiates all the natural beauty inherent in her!

All the changes that the female body undergoes during these wonderful 9 months are, of course, reversible. Everything falls into place some time after meeting with the baby, but the body needs much more time to fully recover. Not less than a year or two later, everything starts to go back to normal and even then one can think: “shouldn't we have another baby?”.

With the onset of pregnancy, the beginning of a new period in a woman's life is observed. By this time, nature has provided for a number of physiological changes in the body of the expectant mother, designed to create optimal conditions for bearing a child. Thus, optimal conditions are created for the development of the fetus. A lot can change in 9 months - self-awareness, mood, life goals.

Pregnancy is rightfully considered a special state of the body, characterized by a whole range of typical transformations.

You can observe the following changes in the body during pregnancy:

absence of menstruation - due to functional changes in the ovary, changes in the state of the mucous membrane lining the uterine cavity are observed;
a prolonged increase in basal temperature is due to the influence of the hormone progesterone produced by the ovary;
the placenta is formed;
the appearance of the expectant mother also undergoes changes, the weight increases markedly;
the cerebral cortex ensures the coordination of the functioning of various organs and systems in a direction that provides suitable conditions for bearing a fetus;
changes in metabolism are observed, as well as the volume of blood circulating in the body;
changes in the indicators of the composition of the blood, as well as the systems of its coagulation and stopping bleeding;
the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems also undergoes changes.

Thus, the body completely rebuilds its functioning, taking into account the new state of the woman.

What are the changes in the body for during pregnancy?

Carrying a child is a natural process, which is accompanied by the physiological restructuring of a woman's body. The woman's body during this period functions in a new mode, there are increased loads on it.

During the course of pregnancy, from the first days, a number of structural physiological changes in the woman's body during pregnancy are observed, which are aimed at achieving the following results:

supplying the developing fetus with the necessary amount of oxygen, as well as nutrients important for the full development of the fetus and bearing the child;
elimination of fetal waste products from the body of a pregnant woman;
preparation of various systems of the woman's body for the upcoming birth of a baby, as well as his breastfeeding.

These tasks are generally aimed at maintaining the reproductive function of a person, therefore, changes in a woman's body during pregnancy can be called quite natural and physiological. If the body is not able to fully adapt, conditions that are unfavorable for the health of the child and the pregnant woman may develop. Under the influence of increasing loads on the body, in the presence of chronic diseases or disorders in the work of certain organs, a deterioration in the health of a woman, as well as the development of pathologies of pregnancy, can be observed. In order to avoid possible problems, it is necessary to come to the antenatal clinic in the early stages for registration, pass the necessary tests and get expert advice.

The condition of a pregnant woman can be monitored and corrected by a doctor as a result of examinations, as well as laboratory and instrumental studies. Having passed the tests, you will need to determine the indicators of blood, urine, etc. Taking into account the information received, preventive measures can be taken to avoid the development of any complications during the course of pregnancy, and to most effectively prepare for the upcoming birth. It should be noted that the physiological course of pregnancy is characterized by its own indicators, in general, do not coincide with the norms for a healthy person. In addition, for each trimester of pregnancy, the rates of these indicators differ.

What changes can be observed in the body during pregnancy

There is a point of view that this period is a kind of endurance test for the female body. Thus, overstrain and overwork should be avoided during pregnancy. In everyday life, it is necessary for a pregnant woman to create conditions so that she can successfully adapt to the changing conditions of pregnancy and safely bear the baby.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: body weight and metabolism

During pregnancy, weight gain is normally about 10 kg, generally reaching from 8 to 18 kg.

In this case, the weight gain is dispersed approximately according to the following principle:

the fetus along with the placenta, including also membranes and amniotic fluid - from 4000 to 4500 g;
the uterus, as well as the mammary glands - a kilogram. The weight of the uterus from 50-100 g increases to 1000-1200 g;
blood - about one and a half kilograms;
adipose tissue - 4000 g and tissue fluid - 1000 g.

In the first half of pregnancy, the increase is about four kilograms, in the second half - twice as much. In the presence of a body weight deficit before pregnancy, with its onset, a more significant weight gain may be observed. In connection with this phenomenon and in order to fully develop the fetus, attention should be paid to the diet of the expectant mother. You will need to provide a balanced diet, including the required amount of nutrients. It may be necessary to supplement it with calcium preparations, which is necessary for the development of the child's skeleton, as well as iron for optimal hematopoiesis.

In order to meet the needs of the bearing fetus, the woman's metabolism is largely rebuilt. The amount of digestive enzymes produced by her body increases. The lungs are saturated with a large amount of oxygen due to the higher concentration of erythrocytes and hemoglobin in the blood. In addition, it increases the amount of nutrients that are transported by the placenta into the blood of the fetus. Due to increased metabolism and the need to provide for the needs of the fetus, a woman needs to consume more vitamins.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: the nervous system and respiratory organs

During the course of pregnancy, the work of the endocrine and nervous systems of the woman's body is rebuilt. In the first few months, a reduced excitability of the cerebral cortex can be observed, as a result, the reflex activity of the subcortical part and the spinal cord increases. Further, the excitability of the cerebral cortex increases and remains in this state almost until the end of pregnancy. By the time of childbirth, the opposite phenomenon can be observed, while the activity of the spinal cord increases, which leads to an increase in the reflex and muscular activity of the uterus. It is often possible to notice that pregnant women are kind of immersed in themselves. Perhaps the appearance of irritability, mood swings, drowsiness. In addition, it is known that until the end of pregnancy, most of the impulses coming from the uterine receptors are blocked. These mechanisms are provided by the central nervous system to preserve the pregnancy.

Due to the increase in the content of progesterone, the smooth muscles of the bronchial walls are additionally relaxed, while the lumen in the airways increases. The body's need for oxygen in the expectant mother increases. In order to supply oxygen to the growing fetus, the volume of air inhaled in one movement increases, as well as (towards the end of pregnancy) the respiration rate. Thus, the rate of ventilation of the lungs increases significantly (by about 40%). About a third of this amount of air is used to supply the fetus, 10% - for the placenta, the rest is used in the woman's body. If shortness of breath or other breathing disorders occurs, a pregnant woman should consult a doctor.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: cardiovascular system, blood pressure and blood composition

We can say that the main load in the course of pregnancy falls on the cardiovascular system. To supply the pregnant woman and the fetus with the necessary amount of oxygen and nutrients, the heart and blood vessels pump more blood - its volume increases by about one and a half liters, reaching its maximum value at about the seventh month of pregnancy. In this case, there is an increase in the left ventricle, heart rate increases and the minute volume of blood increases. Thus, the heart and blood vessels function under increased stress. At the same time, the occurrence of systolic murmurs is not considered a pathology; in most cases, these phenomena go away after pregnancy.

Blood pressure during normal pregnancy does not change in most cases. In the first trimester, it can be slightly lowered (with lethargy and drowsiness). At about the 16th week, the pressure may increase by 5-10 mm Hg. Art. The initial value of the woman's blood pressure before pregnancy should be taken into account in order to judge its changes over time. An increase in systolic pressure by 30% is regarded as a pathological symptom. In addition, it is believed that diastolic pressure should not exceed 70-80 mm Hg. Art.

The processes of hematopoiesis during this period proceed in an enhanced mode, the composition of the blood also changes - there is an increase in the number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and blood plasma. To enhance the synthesis of red blood cells and improve blood viscosity, it is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of protein in food. In addition, iron supplementation is often indicated. During pregnancy, the number of leukocytes in the blood may slightly increase. The platelet count, as a rule, does not change significantly.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: genitals, endocrine system, endocrine glands

In the area of the external genital organs, there is an increased blood supply, the cervical canal of the uterus is expanded. The tissues of her, the uterus itself and the vagina are characterized by significant looseness, acquire softness and elasticity necessary for subsequent childbirth.

The endocrine system influences future pregnancy even before fertilization. The normal functioning of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries ensures the development of the egg and promotes fertilization. For the normal development of the fetus, hormones produced by the endocrine system of a woman also play an important role - they stimulate the development of its bone tissue, brain development, and energy production.

Noticeable changes in the female body during pregnancy are caused by the influence of the endocrine glands. The ovaries are slightly enlarged, one of them contains the corpus luteum, functioning until the fourth month of pregnancy. Further, the production of hormones (progesterone and estrogen) is taken over by the placenta. The number of blood vessels expanding and braiding the uterus increases, which increases and by the end of the gestation period reaches more than 30 cm in height. By the beginning of the second trimester, it goes beyond the pelvic zone, with the approach of childbirth, it appears at the hypochondrium. The volume of the uterine cavity increases significantly, its weight increases to 1-1.2 kg (excluding the fetus). The enlarging uterus is held in the desired position of the ligaments (while their thickening and stretching is observed). Sometimes, especially when changing the position of the body, pain occurs in these ligaments, caused by their stretching.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: digestive organs and excretions

In the first trimester of pregnancy, you can often observe manifestations of early toxicosis - nausea, dizziness, and sometimes vomiting in the morning refers to its characteristic signs. Taste sensations may also change, and strange food addictions may appear. Most often, these phenomena stop by the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy, sometimes later. Under the influence of hormones produced by the placenta, intestinal tone decreases, therefore, a tendency to constipation is often observed. Over time, the enlarging uterus displaces the intestines upward, while the stomach also shifts, which can cause some of its contents to be thrown into the esophagus. Hence the emerging feeling of heartburn, which can be dealt with by taking antacids. In addition, the last meal is recommended no later than two hours before bedtime, as well as placement on a bed with a raised headboard.

During this period, the kidneys function in a mode of increased loads, ensuring the excretion of urea from the body, maintaining optimal pressure indicators and regulating water-electrolyte metabolism. If inflammatory diseases were previously present in them, with the onset of pregnancy, their exacerbations are possible. In the process of gestation, the uterus exerts tangible pressure in the bladder area, so there may be an urge to urinate more often. Renal filtration of the blood is enhanced, while the appearance of the amount of sugar in small quantities can be observed. Nevertheless, the appearance of protein in the urine may indicate the presence of an inflammation process or gestosis. At the final stage of gestation, the appearance of small edema can be noted.

Changes in the body during pregnancy: musculoskeletal system, skin, mammary glands

Due to the influence of the hormone relaxin, the ligaments of the joints are loosened. Thus, the joints of the small pelvis become softer, which increases their mobility and prepares the conditions for childbirth. Sometimes there is a slight discrepancy of the pubic bones - when a so-called "duck" gait appears in a pregnant woman, you should inform the doctor about it. Peculiar changes during this period can be observed on the skin. Quite often, pregnant women notice an increase in facial pigmentation, in the area around the nipples, as well as on the abdomen along the line that rises to the navel. There is an increase in the mammary glands, an increase in the number of lobules and adipose tissue in them, coarsening of the nipples. Closer to childbirth, the production of colostrum is started - when the nipple is squeezed, a few drops of thick, light liquid may appear. Sometimes on the skin around the navel and in the lower abdomen, as well as on the chest and thighs, you can observe the appearance of arcuate stretch marks.

Changes of this kind indicate the physiological adaptation of a pregnant woman to bearing a fetus. In order to prevent the development of pathologies, it is recommended to take measures that contribute to the creation of suitable conditions for the development of pregnancy. These include developing a balanced diet, drinking enough fluids, eliminating bad habits, ensuring an adequate level of physical activity and staying in the fresh air.