This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Cardiovascular System, Subject name: Gynaecology & Obstetrics
All of the following physiological changes are seen in pregnancy except: 
Select and explain. 
A. Increased stroke volume, B. Increased cardiac output, C. Increased intravascular volume, D. Increased peripheral resistance
D: Increased peripheral resistance
Answer: D: Increased peripheral resistance 
Explanation: Ans. d. Increased peripheral resistance (Ref: Dutta 6/e p53, 51)During the physiological course of pregnancy, maternal peripheral vascular resistance decreases."Pregnancy is a state of hypervolemia. There is active retention of sodium (900 mmol), potassium (350 mmol) and water."- Dutta 6/e p51Hemodynamic Changes during Pregnancy Non-PregnantPregnancy near TermChangeCardiac output (liter/min)4.56.26+40%Stroke volume (ml)6575+27%Heart rate (per minute)7085+17%Blood pressureUnaffected or mid-pregnancy drop of diastolic pressure by 5-10 mm HgVenous pressure8-10 cm (femoral)20 cm water+100% waterColloid oncotic pressure2018-14%Systemic vascular resistance -21%Pulmonary vascular resistance -34%