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Am J Perinatol 1990; 7(2): 118-121
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-999460
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1990 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Renal Responses to Immersion and Exercise in Pregnancy

Vern L. Katz, Robert McMurray, Michael J. Berry, Robert C. Cefalo, Christine Bowman
  • Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Department of Physical Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Publication History

Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Twelve healthy pregnant women were studied at 15, 25, and 35 weeks' gestation and at 8 to 12 weeks postpartum. Women were immersed for 20 minutes at 30°C. They then exercised at 60% maximum oxygen capacity on a modified ergometer. Substantial diuresis and natriuresis occurred without changes in osmolarity or serum sodium. The diuresis was significantly greater during pregnancy than postpartum. The natriuresis was similar. Diuresis and natriuresis were greater than would be expected from investigations in nonpregnant subjects. This study suggests that immersion may be a beneficial therapy for edema without decreasing plasma volume.

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