How does the body’s blood volume change during pregnancy?

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During pregnancy, the body's blood volume significantly increases to support both the mother and the developing fetus. This increase is typically around 40-50% above pre-pregnancy levels. The expansion of blood volume is necessary to accommodate the increased metabolic demands of the mother and to provide adequate circulation to the placenta for fetal nourishment and waste removal.

This rise in blood volume helps to ensure that there is enough blood flow to the uterus and other organs while also compensating for blood loss that may occur during childbirth. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure and supplying essential nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby.

Understanding this physiological change is critical for healthcare providers to monitor maternal health and identify any potential complications that may arise from inadequate blood volume or circulation challenges during pregnancy.

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