Pulmonary function in advanced uncomplicated singleton and twin pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Pregnancy significantly alters respiratory function due to mechanical constraints from fetal growth.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for managing maternal health during pregnancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify respiratory function changes in normal pregnancy.
• To compare respiratory function between twin and singleton pregnancies.

Main Methods:

• Pulmonary function tests were conducted on 50 twin-pregnant, 50 singleton-pregnant, and 50 non-pregnant women.
• Key parameters measured included FVC, FEV1, PEF rate, FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF25-75%, and maximal voluntary ventilation.

Main Results:

• Pregnant women exhibited lower respiratory parameters (except FEV1/FVC ratio) compared to non-pregnant controls.
• No significant differences in respiratory function were observed between twin and singleton pregnancies.

Conclusions:

• Twin pregnancy, despite increased physiological demands, does not impose a greater burden on respiratory function than singleton pregnancy.
• Respiratory function adaptations in pregnancy are comparable between singleton and twin gestations.