Title HEMODYNAMIC CHANGES IN NORMAL PRIMIGRAVIDA- AN ECHOCRDIOGRAPHIC ASSESMENT.

Objective: The factors affecting cardiac output in normal pregnancy remain controversial. This study prospectively evaluates maternal hemodynamic and cardiac structure and function by echocardiography in healthy primi mother. Methods: It's a prospective study, 143 primi gravida women were evaluated, Echocardiography had been done at 12 -14 wks gestation, 30-32 wk gestation and 6 -8 wks postpartum in which 6 -- 8 weeks postpartum values were considered as baseline. The data was subjected to statistical analysis to observe the changes at different gestational periods by using ANOVA Results: Cardiac output increased significantly at the early to mid third trimester and was maintained until term. It increased predominantly in the latter half of pregnancy 53% occurred from baseline a 20.3% increase in heart rate and 29% increase in stroke volume. Left ventricular systolic function in terms of ejection fraction and fractional shortening was preserved until term. Total peripheral resistance also decreased in 29 % 1st trimester and 37% in later half of pregnancy. Conclusion: The TFR and MAP decreases in the early pregnancy, cardiac output increase in the early gestation and peak in mid third trimester and is maintained until term. Left ventricular systolic functions were maintained during pregnancy [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]