What physiological change occurs in blood pressure during the second trimester of pregnancy?

During the second trimester of pregnancy, it is common for blood pressure to decrease by about 5-10 mm Hg. This physiological change can be attributed to a combination of factors including hormonal adjustments and increased blood volume.

As pregnancy progresses, the body experiences an increase in plasma volume, which can lead to a relative decrease in systemic vascular resistance. Hormones such as progesterone cause vasodilation, further contributing to lower blood pressure. This drop is typically more pronounced in the second trimester as the body adapts to the growing fetus and its demands.

Monitoring blood pressure during pregnancy is important because while a decrease is normal, significant drops or deviations from expected levels could indicate complications such as gestational hypertension or preeclampsia later on. Understanding these changes helps in assessing maternal and fetal health throughout the pregnancy.