Effect of Advanced Uncomplicated Pregnancy on Pulmonary Function Parameters in a Tertiary Care Hospital

The study was conducted on 50 normal pregnant women in third trimester of uncomplicated pregnancy (Test Group) and 50 age-matched non-pregnant women (Control Group) of identical socio economic background in the age group of 20–35 years in AGMC & GBP Hospital, Agartala, a tertiary care hospital in the North-Eastern India. Pulmonary function test parameters FVC, FEV1, FEF25-75%, PEFR & FEV1/FVC ratio were recorded by electronic Spirometer using Helios 401 software. There was a statistically significant decrease in all the pulmonary function test parameters in 3rd trimester of normal pregnancy when compared with the age-matched healthy non-pregnant control group. These changes in pulmonary functions are attributed to major adaptations in the maternal respiratory system and are also be influenced by the mechanical pressure of enlarging gravid uterus.