Renal hemodynamics and volume homeostasis during pregnancy in the rat

We believe that in pregnant rats, GFR is elevated at term, whereas renal plasma flow appears not to be increased. The mechanism for this increment is unclear, as is the specific time during gestation when renal hemodynamics increase. Rats increase their salt appetite and significantly positive sodium balance occurs, which is most pronounced during the last week of gestation. The retained sodium is distributed in part to the products of conception and in part to the mother, particularly in increasing her extracellular fluid volume. Although chronic volume expansion is present, absolute tubular sodium reabsorption remains elevated. The mechanism for this elevated tubular reabsorption appears no to be related to aldosterone because reduction or inhibition of this mineralocorticoid does not affect sodium balance significantly.