Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) increases by 50-70%
The kidneys increase in size
The urinary collecting system (renal pelvis, calyces and ureters)
dilate, leading to a tendency to stasis of urine. Acute pyelonephritis
is the commonest renal disorder in pregnancy
Glycosuria is common, as the increased GFR can overwhelm the
capacity for tubular re-absorbtion of glucose
Proteinuria is common (upper limit of normal in pregnancy is
300 mg/24 h collection)
Plasma albumin concentration falls early in pregnancy and is then
static to term
Question:
What are normal values for plasma urea and creatinine concentrations
in pregnancy?