USMLE Step 2 CK Lecture Notes 2019: Obstetrics/Gynecology (Kaplan Test Prep)

Table I-1-2. Cardiovascular Changes

Arterial blood pressure Systolic ↓

Diastolic ↓↓

Venous pressure Central Unchanged

Femoral ↑

Peripheral vascular resistance ↓

Murmurs:    A   systolic    ejection    murmur  along   the left    sternal border  is  normal

in  pregnancy,  owing   to  increased   CO  passing through the aortic  and

pulmonary   valves. Diastolic   murmurs are never   normal  in  pregnancy   and

must    be  investigated.