This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Gynaecology & Obstetrics
Maximum cardiac output is seen during which phase of pregnancy? 
Select and explain. 
A. Ist trimester, B. IInd trimester, C. Labour, D. Immediate postpaum period
D: Immediate postpaum period
Answer: D: Immediate postpaum period 
Explanation: Maximum cardiac output during pregnancy is seen in the immediate postpaum period. During this period blood pressure increases by 70% over the prelabour values. Cardiac output gradually increases after 5th week of pregnancy, reaches its peak 40-50% at about 30-34 weeks. Thereafter the cardiac output remains the same till term. During labour cardiac output increases to 50%. Ref: Textbook of Obstetrics By D. C Dutta, 6th Edition, Page 51-56.