Final answer:
Increased tidal volume during pregnancy is a normal change in respiratory functioning, helping to meet the higher oxygen demands of both mother and fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, various changes occur in respiratory functioning to meet the increased metabolic demands of the mother and fetus. One of these changes is an increased tidal volume, which is the amount of air inhaled or exhaled with each breath during normal breathing. This adaptation helps to ensure adequate oxygenation for both the mother and the developing fetus. Another change is an increase in respiratory rate to compensate for the smaller volume of air per breath due to the upward pressure exerted by the growing uterus on the diaphragm. However, as the pelvis becomes more elastic and the fetus descends in the process known as lightening, this discomfort typically lessens. It is also normal to have increased oxygen consumption during pregnancy to support the metabolic needs of the mother and fetus.