In pregnancy, blood pressure typically changes in what way when standing?

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes significant cardiovascular adaptations, including changes in blood volume, blood pressure, and vascular resistance. When standing, the blood pressure typically decreases due to the influence of gravity, which can cause blood to pool in the lower extremities. This can lead to reduced venous return to the heart, consequently resulting in a decrease in cardiac output and blood pressure.

Additionally, the hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect vascular tone and responsiveness. For some women, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, this decrease in blood pressure can lead to light-headedness or even dizziness upon standing, a condition often referred to as orthostatic hypotension.

It's important to understand that while blood pressure may fluctuate in some individuals due to numerous factors, the most common and significant change noticed upon standing, especially during pregnancy, is the decrease that can lead to feelings of light-headedness. This understanding reinforces the need for monitoring and managing symptoms in pregnant patients who may experience these physiological changes.