Normal cardiac changes that occur during pregnancy include:
A) decreased cardiac output.
B) increased thickness and mass of the left ventricle.
C) decreased heart rate.
D) dilation of the ventricles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maternal blood volume increases by 40% to 50% because of an increase in plasma volume. The heart works harder to accommodate the increased heart rate and stroke volume (both equal cardiac output), thereby resulting in the increase in left ventricle wall thickness and mass. The blood volume returns to prepregnancy levels within 3 to 4 weeks after delivery. As the uterus enlarges and the diaphragm moves upward, the heart is shifted horizontally and there is a slight axis rotation.

Normal Cardiac Changes That Occur During Pregnancy Include