What cardiovascular changes are normal for a client in the second trimester of pregnancy?

During the second trimester of pregnancy, physiological changes occur to accommodate the growing fetus and support the increased metabolic needs of both the mother and the developing baby. One of the most notable changes is the increase in pulse rate, which is a normal and expected adjustment.

As the blood volume expands to support the rise in blood flow necessary for fetal development, the heart responds by beating faster to help maintain adequate circulation. This adaptation is crucial for meeting the additional demands placed on the cardiovascular system. Typically, there is an increase in blood volume during pregnancy—approximately 30% to 50%—which leads to a compensatory increase in heart rate to ensure that oxygen and nutrients are effectively delivered to both the mother and fetus.

The other changes mentioned do not align with what is considered normal during the second trimester. For instance, a decrease in heart rate would not provide sufficient blood flow, and a decrease in blood volume contradicts the expected increase due to pregnancy. An increase in heart size can occur over the course of pregnancy, but it is not as immediate or prominently discussed as the increase in pulse rate during the second trimester.

Thus, the increase in pulse rate reflects the body's natural adaptation to support both maternal and fetal health during this critical stage of pregnancy.