Question

The hemodilution of pregnancy peaks at _____ weeks and results in a ______ in a woman's Hct.

a) 24 weeks, decrease
b) 36 weeks, increase
c) 28 weeks, increase
d) 18 weeks, decrease

Answer 1

The hemodilution of pregnancy peaks at 28 weeks and results in a decrease in a woman's Hct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hemodilution of pregnancy peaks at 28 weeks and results in a decrease in a woman's Hct. During pregnancy, blood volume increases substantially to manage the demands of fetal nourishment and fetal waste removal. This increase in blood volume leads to a dilution of red blood cells, resulting in a decrease in hematocrit (Hct).