Question 4

Describe the respiratory changes during pregnancy.

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College Answer

This question was variably answered, with a wide range of marks. Candidates often 
mentioned central regulation, anatomy, respiratory mechanics, static lung volumes or gas 
transfer, but did not provide comprehensive cover of all areas. Very few clearly described the extent of any change (either as a percentage or actual amount relative to the non-pregnant 
state). A number of candidates presented information well in diagrammatic form (e.g. static 
lung volumes) however then repeated this same information in text, which was unnecessary.