A comparative study to evaluate effect of advanced uncomplicated pregnancy on forced vital capacity and peak expiratory flow rate on healthy North Indian women

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is characterized by profound changes in the function of several integrated physiological control systems. During pregnancy due to various physical, hormonal, and physiological changes, there is the effect on pulmonary function. There are documented variations among western and Indian women toward changes in forced vital capacity (FVC) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in advanced pregnancy. Aims and Objectives: The objectives are as follows: (i) To evaluate the extent of changes of lung function in pregnancy in comparison to non-pregnant counterpart and (ii) to determine the effect of gestational age on the pulmonary function of pregnant women. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 study participants comprising 50 pregnant women of gestational age 29–34 weeks, 50 pregnant women of gestational age >34 weeks, and 50 height and age-matched controls (non-pregnant ladies) were included in the study. FVC, forced expiratory volume in one second and PEFR were taken using HELIOS 401 (Spirometer) in standing position. Results: A reduction in percentage predicted values of FVC is seen in the pregnant females as compared to their non-pregnant counterpart. There is also a gradual not significant decline in the values of FVC as a period of gestation increases. There was no significant difference observed between non-pregnant and pregnant subjects. PEFR was found to decrease as a period of gestation increased. PEFR was found to be significantly decreased during pregnancy in comparison to non-pregnant state. Conclusion: Decline in FVC and PEFR during pregnancy among Indian women was found in this study which is in contrary to literature of western countries. Clinicians should be take care of these changes while dealing with Indian pregnant women.